Awareness and practice of ergonomics by gynecological laparoscopists in Turkey

Ergonomics in laparoscopy has been gaining increasing attention. The research literature on ergonomics is growing worldwide; however, there are no studies or data from Turkey. Our study provides information on the awareness and use of ergonomics in laparoscopic gynecology in Turkey. A questionnaire consisting of 25 questions was sent by email to 225 laparoscopists who are members of the Turkish Society of Gynecological Endoscopy. In response, 45.7% of the questionnaires were returned. Six respondents (5.9%) had never experienced pain, and two respondents (1.9%) always experienced pain during or after laparoscopy. The shoulders, neck, and back were the most common sites where respondents experienced pain. Most of the respondents (64.1%) utilized one monitor during laparoscopic surgery, and only 2% of respondents utilized a monitor below eye level. Less than 50% of the respondents were aware of ergonomic guidelines. Even though less than half of the Turkish gynecological laparoscopist respondents were aware of ergonomic guidelines, more than half used appropriate visual systems, operating tables, hand instruments, and had large enough operating rooms. Only the number and level of monitors used by respondents were not in accordance with ergonomic guidelines.