Reducing surgeon musculoskeletal discomfort through ergonomic optimization in robotic surgery: A quality improvement evaluation

Objective Robotic surgery offers distinct advantages for patients but introduces unique ergonomic demands that may contribute to musculoskeletal strain among surgeons. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of ergonomic adjustments on postoperative musculoskeletal discomfort among robotic surgeons. Methods This quality improvement evaluation was conducted at Griffin Hospital, a medium-sized community hospital from May 2024 to January 2025. Participants completed a baseline ergonomics survey and subsequently participated in four control and four experimental observations. In the control condition, surgeons operated using their usual console setup. In the experimental condition, a standardized ergonomic intervention was applied. Postoperative discomfort across body regions was compared between control and ergonomic conditions using linear mixed-effects models, adjusting for preoperative discomfort and operative duration. Results Seven surgeons participated in this study. Robotic experience varied, with most surgeons (6, 85.7%) reporting 1–10 years of practice. Despite routine console use, many reported musculoskeletal symptoms, particularly involving the neck (57.1%), shoulders (71.4%), and back (57.1%). Following ergonomic adjustments, surgeons reported significantly lower postoperative discomfort scores, including reductions in the shoulders (MD = 0.488, p < 0.001), back (MD = 0.862, p < 0.001), and hands/wrists (MD = 0.334, p = 0.014). Overall discomfort was significantly lower in the ergonomic condition than in the control condition (MD = 0.668, p < 0.001). Conclusion Musculoskeletal discomfort is prevalent among robotic surgeons and may be linked to modifiable ergonomic factors. These findings highlight the need for standardized ergonomic guidelines and the incorporation of ergonomic education into robotic surgery training.