Operating Table Height and Lumbar Spine Ergonomics

Description

In a detailed presentation, Ahmed Elsayed discusses the critical relationship between operating table height and ergonomics in the surgical environment. He begins by highlighting the high prevalence of musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries among surgeons, attributed mainly to repetitive movements and awkward postures. In the UK, injury rates among surgeons can be as high as 81%, with lower back pain being the most reported issue, often linked to improper operating table height.



The presentation focuses on a study that examines the impact of operating table height on spinal loading and surgical performance. Through involving 21 participants and conducting simulated surgical tasks at various individualized heights, data was collected on spinal kinematics and muscle activity using EMG sensors. The study revealed that operating at elbow height resulted in the fastest task completion times and reduced spinal loads compared to higher table heights.



Further analysis indicated a significant increase in lumbar flexion and spinal load when operating tables were lowered. Although surface EMG data did not yield significant trends, the conclusions drawn emphasize the necessity of optimizing table height to balance surgical efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Elsayed concludes that the ideal operating table height should be around elbow height, fostering better performance and minimizing strain on the lumbar spine.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230363

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