Our Summary

The research paper discusses the physical strain and risk of injury that surgeons, particularly those specializing in laparoscopic procedures (minimally invasive surgeries), experience during operations. The study divided surgeons into two groups based on their experience level: high experience (experienced doctors) and low experience (less experienced doctors and trainees). They used a technique called electromyography to measure the muscle activity in different parts of the surgeon’s body during surgery.

The results showed that less experienced surgeons experienced more strain and fatigue, particularly in their lower back muscles, compared to the more experienced surgeons. The data also showed that all surgeons, regardless of their experience level, felt tired after performing two consecutive surgeries, especially in their arm muscles.

This research could be used to improve ergonomics and training programs for surgeons to reduce the risk of injury and improve their efficiency during operations. The study highlights the importance of proper posture and technique in the operating room.

FAQs

  1. What type of surgeries was the study focused on?
  2. Does a surgeon’s experience level affect their fatigue and strain during operations?
  3. How can the findings of this research be used to improve safety and efficiency for surgeons?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic surgery is to ask about the experience level of the surgeon performing the procedure. Choosing a surgeon who is highly experienced in laparoscopic surgery can reduce the risk of complications and ensure a successful outcome. It is also important for patients to follow post-operative instructions carefully to promote healing and minimize discomfort.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for laparoscopic surgery include those who require minimally invasive procedures for conditions such as:

  1. Gallbladder issues such as gallstones
  2. Hernias
  3. Appendicitis
  4. Gynecological conditions such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts
  5. Digestive issues such as reflux disease or ulcers
  6. Colorectal conditions such as diverticulitis or colorectal cancer

Laparoscopic surgery is often preferred for these conditions because it offers shorter recovery times, less scarring, and reduced pain compared to traditional open surgery. Additionally, patients who are considered high risk for complications during open surgery may also be recommended for laparoscopic procedures.

Timeline

Before laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Patient meets with surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks and benefits.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing, such as blood work and imaging scans.
  3. Patient may need to follow specific pre-operative instructions, such as fasting or stopping certain medications.

During laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Patient is given anesthesia to induce unconsciousness.
  2. Surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and other surgical instruments.
  3. Surgeon performs the necessary procedure, such as removing a gallbladder or repairing a hernia, using the laparoscope to guide them.
  4. Surgery typically lasts 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

After laparoscopic surgery:

  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any immediate complications.
  2. Patient may experience pain, nausea, and fatigue in the hours and days following surgery.
  3. Patient is discharged home the same day or after a short hospital stay, depending on the procedure.
  4. Patient is advised to follow post-operative instructions, such as taking pain medications, avoiding heavy lifting, and attending follow-up appointments.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may need a few weeks to fully recover from the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of laparoscopic surgery compared to traditional open surgery?
  2. How many laparoscopic procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  3. What type of training and experience do you have in performing laparoscopic surgeries?
  4. How will my recovery time differ between laparoscopic surgery and open surgery?
  5. What are the potential complications or side effects of laparoscopic surgery?
  6. How will you ensure my safety and comfort during the procedure?
  7. Will I require any special preparation or follow-up care for laparoscopic surgery?
  8. How long will the surgery take, and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing laparoscopic surgery?
  10. How can I minimize the risk of injury during and after the surgery, based on the findings of recent research on surgeon strain and fatigue?

Reference

Authors: Thurston T, Dolan JP, Husain F, Stroud A, Funk K, Borzy C, Zhu X. Journal: Surg Endosc. 2022 Sep;36(9):6672-6678. doi: 10.1007/s00464-021-08937-6. Epub 2022 Jan 16. PMID: 35034217