The goal of this observational study is to learn whether the use of an exoskeleton system can reduce musculoskeletal strain and fatigue during ENT surgical procedures in ENT surgeons performing transoral, endoscopic, and transcervical operations. The main questions it aims to answer are:
Does the use of an exoskeleton reduce musculoskeletal strain and muscle activity (measured via sEMG and MVC) during surgery? Does the use of an exoskeleton reduce subjective pain and fatigue in the neck, shoulders, and wrists during and after surgery?
Researchers will compare surgeries performed with the exoskeleton to those performed without it to determine if the device reduces physical strain and improves ergonomic outcomes.
Participants will:
Perform ENT surgical procedures with and without the exoskeleton system Have surface EMG electrodes placed on the neck and shoulders to measure muscle activity Undergo maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) testing before and after surgery (including wrist assessments) Provide subjective pain/strain scores at regular intervals (every 10 minutes) during procedures Follow standard surgical preparation and positioning protocols while data are recorded throughout the operation
ENT surgeons who perform a range of transoral, endoscopic and/or transcervical ENT operations.
Willing to participate with surface EMG (sEMG) monitoring and utilise the Ottobock exoskeleton.
• Prior familiarisation with the Ottobock exoskeleton, evidenced by completion of at least five (5) documented surgical procedures using the device before enrolment in the study.
Pre-existing musculoskeletal problems that limits transoral, endoscopic and/or transcervical ENT operations
Inability to safely or effectively perform surgery using the Ottobock exoskeleton.
Lack of prior familiarisation with the Ottobock exoskeleton, defined as failure to complete at least five (5) documented surgical procedures using the device prior to enrolment in the study.
The study population consists of ENT surgeons who perform transoral, endoscopic, and/or transcervical ENT surgical procedures. Participants are clinicians within the ENT department who are experienced in these surgical techniques and have prior familiarity with the exoskeleton system. Eligible participants must be willing to undergo surface EMG (sEMG) monitoring and maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) testing, and to use the exoskeleton during live surgical procedures. Surgeons with pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions that limit their ability to perform surgery or safely use the exoskeleton are excluded.
Cohort
Cross-sectional
Not listed
• Differences in VAS and motor unit firing (via sEMG) of participants with and without the exoskeleton during transoral, endoscopic and transcervical ENT surgery. • Change in motor unit firing during MVC comparing before and after the surgical procedure.
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