When One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Efficacy Assessment of an Engineering Control for Endoscopic Procedures

Studies report an elevated prevalence of endoscopy-related musculoskeletal disorders in gastroenterologists. Interventions primarily address work environment and work organization, not tool design (the endoscope). This study evaluated an add-on adjustable support strap designed to reduce the workload of the user’s left hand, which operates the endoscope’s control section. Study participants (four women, seven men) were experienced in endoscopy. Each participant performed two simulated colonoscopies with the support strap and two without (within-subjects design). Effects of the support strap were assessed using normalized muscle activity (nEMG) from surface electrodes over finger and wrist flexors and extensors and trapezius m., video, and usability data. With the strap, nEMG was reduced in most muscles for three participants (all women); mixed results for four, and no reduced nEMG for four others (all men). Mode of ratings of usability, usefulness, and desirability were 7, 5, 5, respectively (7 = very good). Results suggest benefits for some users.