The Impact of General Fatigue on Surgeons’ Performance During Laparoscopic Surgery: An Experimental Study in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the most prominent developments in the field of modern surgery, as it has contributed to improving surgical outcomes and reducing the duration of hospital stays for patients. However, along with these benefits, new challenges arise related to the physical and mental fatigue of surgeons, which can negatively impact surgical accuracy and patient safety. Through this study, we aim to explore the effect of general fatigue on surgeons’ performance, focusing on movement quality by assessing balance, motion, muscular activity, in addition to perceived workload. A comprehensive study will be conducted involving 29 residents and surgeons in the obstetrics and gynecology department, where participants will engage in training sessions in a controlled environment. This research will focus on revealing the effects of fatigue and ways to assess it, paving the way for a deeper understanding of how to improve surgeons’ performance and ensure their safety and that of their patients.

The Importance of Laparoscopic Surgery and Its Challenges

Laparoscopic surgery has become an essential part of modern surgical practices due to the many benefits it provides to patients, such as reduced hospital stays, fewer subsequent complications, and less pain. However, this advancement carries challenges related to ergonomics or body positioning science, as injury rates have increased across all surgical specialties due to the physical and psychological challenges posed during procedures. Studies indicate that the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among surgeons specializing in laparoscopic surgery ranges from 22% to 74%. For female surgeons, this percentage reaches even higher levels, ranging from 73% to 100%. This clearly indicates that this group may be more susceptible to work-related injuries due to negative physical positions and continuous effort.

Laparoscopic surgery requires surgeons to maintain fixed and specialized postures, in addition to performing repetitive movements and using specific surgical tools, contributing to the emergence of chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Studies have shown that the effects of muscle fatigue can occur during long procedures, as the increase in psychological and physical stress presents a significant challenge for surgeons. Therefore, research in the area of fatigue’s impact on surgical performance is of great importance to ensure patient safety and the well-being of surgeons, necessitating the study of fatigue mechanisms and their effects on surgical performance.

Study Design and Methodology

This study involves a controlled laboratory experiment including 29 residents and surgeons in the obstetrics and gynecology department at Nantes University Hospital. Recruitment began in March 2023 and ended in September of the same year. The experimental design for participants involves conducting two one-hour training sessions, one in the morning as a control condition and the other at the end of the workday. Several outcomes related to surgical performance and task accomplishment under fatigue will be measured, including movement quality, perceived psychological load, muscle activation rate, balance, and motor coordination.

The study aims to estimate the psychological and physical impact of a full workday on performance in simulating surgical procedures. Advanced methods such as surface electromyography will be used to assess muscle activation and motion monitoring to measure movement quality and identify changes that may occur due to overall stress. The information derived from this experiment can provide a foundation for developing strategies to improve physical endurance and reduce the impact of fatigue on surgical performance, contributing to enhancing the overall efficiency of surgeons.

The Implications of Fatigue on Surgical Performance

The potential impact of fatigue on surgical performance reflects the importance of doctors recognizing the consequences of continuous work under stressful conditions. Previous studies indicate that neurological and muscular fatigue may lead to an increase in surgical errors, potentially causing harm to the patient. Additionally, psychological pressures arising from complex concepts and time constraints negatively affect surgeons’ decisions during operations, increasing tension and stress during surgical procedures.

This requires a continued focus on…

Surgery balances muscular endurance and mental concentration, thus early recognition of signs of fatigue can help surgeons improve their efficiency. Therefore, training programs should focus on enhancing understanding of fatigue and its potential effects on performance, as improving self-awareness among surgeons can reduce the risks associated with eliminating errors during procedures.

Research and Development Perspectives in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Future research aims to gain a deeper understanding of these challenges in minimally invasive surgery by introducing new techniques in education and training, focusing on building the capabilities of surgeons. These techniques may include the use of advanced simulation and artificial intelligence to analyze surgeons’ performance under different conditions, enabling the development of more specialized and successful training approaches. This technology should be capable of evaluating all aspects of surgical performance, including stress response, quick decision-making abilities, and overall patient safety.

Improving the educational environment is an essential part of enabling surgeons to overcome the effects of fatigue, which will subsequently manifest positively on surgical success rates. In light of increasing challenges, finding innovative new methods to alleviate fatigue levels among surgeons is a key element to ensure the effectiveness and safety of minimally invasive surgical procedures.

Direct Communication in the Gynecology Department

Direct communication between clinics and potential participants through the Gynecology Department at Nantes University Hospital involves providing a comprehensive explanation of the study along with written information. The goal of this communication is to ensure that participants understand all aspects of the study, giving them the opportunity to ask any questions they may have before signing the informed consent form. This process reflects the importance of the connection between researchers and participants in clinical studies, ensuring that the experience is both experimental and ethical. For example, providing written information is an effective way to clarify study details, such as its objectives, methodologies, and anticipated risks, which contributes to enhancing trust between researchers and participants.

Characteristics and Data Collection

The study requires the collection of detailed information about participants, which includes a variety of characteristics. This involves analyzing age, weight, height, gender, dominant hand, and years of residency or practice after residency. It is also important to note whether participants had prior training on the pelvic trainer, as well as the number of hours of weekly exercise. Study questions address the use of unconventional activities such as video games that may influence performance. This knowledge helps researchers understand how physical activity levels and training backgrounds can affect experimental outcomes. By analyzing such data, strategies can be developed that link individual performance in surgical tasks to previous motor experiences.

Experimental Procedures and Technological Equipment

The experiment involves surgical simulation tasks using a Pelvic Trainer equipped with a series of advanced technological devices. The setup includes the use of a camera and a light source connected to a screen, providing an experience similar to actual surgical procedures. Participants are equipped with electrodes and kinematic markers to record performance data. This type of setup contributes to creating a real-world simulated environment where performance data is collected, allowing for more precise and authoritative analysis of fatigue-related changes. For example, statistical recording techniques are used to analyze observations extracted from participants’ performance in various tasks.

Performance Evaluation in Simulated Surgical Tasks

Performance is determined by evaluating the time taken and the number and quality of sutures performed during the task of patting and complexity. Researchers compile performance data while documenting changes in performance related to fatigue. This analysis not only measures task completion rates but also includes qualitative evaluation and scoring for participants based on accuracy and quality of performance. These results are important for understanding how fatigue impacts surgical performance, especially during the real conditions faced by doctors during actual surgical procedures. Such results can contribute to improving training programs for surgeons and reducing the risks associated with fatigue during procedures.

Questionnaires

Measurement of Fatigue and Motivation

Questionnaires are a vital part of this study, as they were used to assess the levels of fatigue and motivation. Participants are able to evaluate their feelings of fatigue and motivation before and after completing tasks, which provides researchers with valuable data on how the tasks affect the participants’ states. Questionnaires, such as the Borg CR-10 scale for assessing physical fatigue, which ranges from 0 to 10, allow researchers to measure the physical and psychological conditions of participants. This type of measurement helps determine the levels of mental and physical exhaustion that surgeons may face during practical practice, which is important information for enhancing performance and reducing errors during procedures.

Muscle Activation and Measurement

The technique of measuring electrical activity in muscles is a fundamental part of the study experiment, using electrodes to record muscle activity levels in specific areas. The research focuses on measuring the activity of specific muscles such as the triangular and shoulder muscles, which are sensitive to stress during surgical procedures. Participants are equipped with precise measurement and analysis devices that allow for continuous recording of changes in muscle activity. For example, collecting and analyzing data continuously helps identify patterns associated with physical fatigue during the experiment. These data are used to develop movement improvement strategies and reduce fatigue, enabling surgeons to enhance their performance and maintain their physical and mental well-being.

Analysis of Muscle Activity Using EMG Signals

Analyzing the electrical activity of muscles using EMG (electromyography) signals allows us to estimate muscle performance while executing various tasks, including measuring muscle strength through the calculation of different percentage ratios of electrical effort. This effort is typically estimated using percentages such as 10%, 50%, and 90%, which allows us to understand how muscle activity changes when performing simple and complex tasks, reflecting the impact of fatigue on muscle performance.

During a study on the SUTT task (Surgical Simulation Test), averages for these percentages were calculated to aid in comparing this study’s data with fatigue sessions. Expected analyses show a significant increase in muscle demands compared to regular sessions, with a decline in the mean frequency (MPF), indicating that fatigue negatively affects muscle performance. This analysis can have significant applications in surgical practices, as fatigue is directly linked to surgeon performance and surgical outcomes.

It is known that muscle fatigue affects discipline and performance efficiency, as this study represents an important step toward understanding the precise relationship between fatigue and surgical performance, which is vital to ensure that endocrine surgeons possess the physical and mental capacity to perform tasks efficiently. Analyzing muscle activity during control and fatigue sessions may provide insights into how to improve surgical practices and reduce risks associated with fatigue.

Assessment of Postural Stability Using a Force Platform

The evaluation of postural stability involves measuring the changes in the center of pressure (COP) during the performance of specific tasks. Data is collected using the Senxis Force Plate software, where this information is analyzed to reveal any deviations or changes in balance. The force platform data is filtered to ensure its accuracy, helping us understand how fatigue impacts the ability to maintain balance.

The COP analysis technique is used to study reactive movement in complex tasks, which is particularly important in engineering development and medical applications. It is known that controlling the level of movement caused by fatigue can lead to performance issues, especially in laparoscopic surgery where the surgeon requires precise control. Through COP assessments, the effects of fatigue on surgical performance can be understood, and this knowledge can be used to offer specialized training to improve balance capability.

It will provide
Data Analysis Details of COP the necessary information to improve surgical practices and provide appropriate interventions that enhance surgeons’ performance and promote safety during operations. Future research outcomes may assist in software design and improve working environments in operating rooms. In addition, these studies may also contribute to adopting new methods for training surgeons to manage fatigue during delicate procedures.

Motion Analysis Using Motion Capture System

An advanced motion capture system consisting of seven cameras was used to document the motion data of the upper limbs during surgical tasks. This system allows for precise measurement of each movement, thereby enabling accurate performance analysis. By marking significant anatomical points, accurate data is collected that can be used to analyze different performance inputs.

This method is considered a powerful tool for researching motion metrics, especially in surgeries that require a high level of precision. Motion analysis provides deep insight into how varying physical conditions impact a surgeon’s performance. For instance, by analyzing movement angles, it can be determined whether there is a deviation from normal outcomes, leading to greater awareness of potential issues.

The data collected from these studies indicate the importance of creating an analytical infrastructure that provides researchers with recurrent data, facilitating their understanding of how physical performance fluctuates under different fatigue conditions. By providing precise information on the range of motion, trainers and supervisors can develop appropriate training plans to enhance efficiency and reduce injury.

Data Management and Statistical Analysis

Data management and statistical analysis are critical components of research, requiring accurate data collection and systematic analysis. A long-term record of data is maintained to ensure information is available for future research. This involves using various statistical methods to identify significant outcomes, such as the Wilcoxon rank test and analysis of variance.

Such studies require large samples to achieve accurate results. Thus, the sample size is determined based on the number of available residents and surgeons willing to participate. The expected results contribute valuable insights into the impact of fatigue on performance during surgery, which can influence training and development strategies for new doctors.

Understanding modern statistical methods such as ANOVA enables comprehensive evaluation of data, allowing classification based on specific variables like experience and slow performance. It also allows for in-depth analysis to understand the different aspects of surgical performance and how factors such as muscles, balance, and motion affect overall task achievement. This element becomes an integral part of research work to enhance scientific performance in the medical field.

The Importance of Ergonomic Factors in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Ergonomic factors are a fundamental part of the success of minimally invasive surgical procedures. Surgeons face physical and mental challenges during work, affecting their ability to perform tasks effectively. Aspects related to bodily balance, work pressure, weight distribution, and the overall design of tools all play a vital role in reducing surgeon fatigue and enhancing precision. For instance, studies show that using surgical tools designed with advanced technology can reduce muscle strain and improve performance during procedures. This indicates that investment in ergonomic technology can translate to better patient outcomes.

The Impact of Mental Load on Surgical Performance

Surgical performance is significantly affected by mental loads. Surgeons face multiple pressures, including work demands, patient-related responsibilities, and the increasing complexities of surgery. Studies have found that high mental loads lead to a decline in performance, negatively impacting the accuracy of procedures and the speed of decision-making. For example, research has shown that using assessment tools such as the NASA-TLX scale is an effective step in understanding the negative impact of stress on surgical performance. The mental load is assessed through several elements such as effort, time, and risks. Therefore, strategies that reduce mental load and improve focus are essential for the success of complex surgeries.

The Effect of

Fatigue and Exhaustion in Surgeons

Fatigue is considered one of the key factors affecting the performance of surgeons during operations. Research shows that surgery requires high levels of focus and attention to detail, making fatigue often result from the long hours spent by the surgeon in surgeries. Studies have demonstrated that fatigue increases the risk of surgical errors and can result from insufficient sleep or extended work periods. Therefore, assessing fatigue levels and introducing breaks to reduce it has become essential. For instance, it has been proven that taking short breaks during work contributes to increased daily productivity, ultimately leading to improved surgical outcomes.

The Importance of Training and Proper Performance Evaluation in Surgery

Training is one of the fundamental factors in enhancing surgical performance. Good training can help equip surgeons with the knowledge and skills required to handle the complexities faced during surgical procedures. Available methods include simulating surgical operations, allowing surgeons to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment. Moreover, evaluating performance through both objective and subjective aspects is an important component in the learning and skill development of surgeons. Research shows that surgeons who have undergone comprehensive training aligned with modern standards are more capable of dealing with emergency cases and complex surgical situations, thus enhancing their chances of success.

The Impact of Social and Organizational Context on Performance

Surgical procedures are also influenced by the social and organizational context in which surgeons operate. Research indicates that having a collaborative and supportive team, backed by effective communication, can improve surgical performance and support quick decision-making abilities. Communication among surgical team members is a fundamental element in reducing errors and enhancing performance. Additionally, a well-organized surgical environment that includes systematic organization of tools and standard procedures is a contributing factor to increasing efficiency and reducing surgical times. Emphasizing teamwork principles and organization alleviates pressure on surgeons, contributing to better working conditions and performance.

Modern Surgical Interventions and Their Effects on Surgical Performance

Minimally invasive surgery represents one of the significant shifts witnessed in the medical field in recent years, offering a range of benefits including reduced patient hospital stay, lower post-operative complications, and less pain perception. However, these developments have also brought challenges related to workplace design and surgeon comfort. With the increasing advancement in surgical techniques, statistics indicate that the rate of musculoskeletal disorders among surgeons performing minimally invasive techniques ranges from 22% to 74%. Gynecological surgery is notably more affected, with some studies showing rates as high as 100%. It appears that maintaining specific positions for extended periods, coupled with repetitive movements, increases the physical and psychological burden on surgeons.

Furthermore, the challenges associated with modern surgical techniques require surgeons to maintain a delicate balance between good performance and physical demands. With the need for precise and prolonged movements, surgeons may suffer from physical and mental fatigue, which can negatively affect the quality of their performance during procedures. Understanding how these factors interact within the surgical environment is critical for developing effective strategies to enhance performance and reduce risks.

Understanding Fatigue and Its Impact on Surgical Performance

Fatigue encountered by surgeons can be divided into two main types: physical fatigue and mental fatigue. Physical fatigue arises as a result of muscle strain, especially in static and repetitive work positions, while mental fatigue relates to the cognitive pressures associated with making tough decisions under stress. This type of fatigue can have negative effects on surgical performance, such as increasing errors and decreasing concentration levels.

Research indicates that…

the experiments a series of simulated surgical tasks that mimic real-life procedures to assess both physical and cognitive performance. Participants were required to complete these tasks while their physiological responses were monitored closely. Data on muscle activity, including the use of surface electromyography (sEMG), was collected to evaluate fatigue levels and muscle performance during the tasks. Additionally, the use of tracking technologies enabled researchers to analyze the participants’ movements and posture throughout the surgery simulations.

After completing the tasks, participants were asked to fill out post-task questionnaires to reflect on their feelings of fatigue, stress, and overall performance. This subjective data, combined with the objective physiological measurements, allowed for a comprehensive analysis of the impact of fatigue on surgical performance and decision-making processes.

النتائج المحتملة والتطبيقات السريرية

نتائج هذه الدراسة من المتوقع أن تسلط الضوء على العلاقة بين التعب البدني والنفسي وأداء الجراح. قد يؤدي هذا إلى تطوير برمجيات تدريبية جديدة وموارد لدعم الجراحين في البيئات عالية الضغط. من المحتمل أن تُستخدم النتائج لتوجيه سياسات وإجراءات لتحسين رفاهية الجراحين، مثل جدولة عمليات أكثر فعالية وتأمين فترات راحة مناسبة خلال اليوم العمل.

أيضًا، يمكن أن تسهم نتائج الدراسة في تعزيز الوعي بأهمية الصحة النفسية والجسدية في السياقات الطبية، مما قد يحفز المؤسسات على تعزيز بيئات عمل داعمة للجراحين. إن تطبيق هذه الابتكارات قد يؤدي إلى تحسين النتائج الجراحية بشكل عام وتقليل المخاطر المرتبطة بالتعب أثناء إجراء العمليات.

The trial session consists of a series of three different tasks related to surgical skills training. These tasks blend hand-eye coordination, as well as bilateral hand coordination, where specific time limits were imposed for each task to challenge participants. All tasks were prepared under the supervision of a specialist to ensure accurate execution and verification of the extracted data.

Measuring Results and Data Analysis

The performance during the simulated surgical tasks was the primary outcome that was monitored; performance was evaluated based on the time taken by participants to complete the tasks and the number and quality of stitches completed. Expectations indicated a decrease in performance during fatigue sessions. The time taken for each task was measured, and a set of criteria was used to assess quality, including the number of completed stitches and the nature of quality, which was diminished by a numerical index ranging from 0 to 5. The research project also included questionnaires to measure levels of fatigue and motivation to evaluate how the mental and physical state of participants affects their performance in different tasks.

Muscle activity data was recorded using the surface electromyography (sEMG) system to identify the activation of primary muscles associated with pain during and after surgical procedures. Measurements included both qualitative and quantitative performance aspects of participants and the time consumed to complete tasks, with specialized software used to compile and analyze this information to ensure accuracy of results. Through data analysis, notable trends and differences in performance were identified, providing a deeper understanding of the impact of fatigue and physical strain on surgical skills.

Fatigue and Stress Questionnaires

Questionnaires measuring levels of fatigue and stress are a vital tool in this research. A graded visual assessment method was used to measure the levels of fatigue and motivation in participants before and after the tasks. The Borg CR-10 scale was also utilized to determine the level of physical stress and muscle tension, focusing on various body areas. The questionnaire included multiple evaluations of psychological factors related to surgical performance such as mental and physical effort and time pressure.

Participants’ interaction with the tasks was assessed through NASA-TLX and SURG-TLX questionnaires, which measure mental and physical workload and time-related challenges. The choice of these tools reflects the researchers’ recognition of the importance of the psychological aspect in performing surgical tasks, as previous studies concentrated on the effect of psychological stress on performance. Thanks to the data extracted from these questionnaires, it was possible to determine how psychological factors affect surgical work, highlighting the need for support strategies for practitioners.

Muscle Properties Interaction and Physical Functions

The interaction between muscle properties and physical functions was a central aspect throughout the study. The research focused on measuring muscle activity using advanced tools such as surface electromyography (sEMG). Electrodes were placed in specific areas such as the trapezius muscle and the deltoid muscle to analyze the effects. It was confirmed that these muscles are considered a fundamental part of surgical performance, where physical strain and muscle tension can affect the overall performance level.

Electrical activity measurements were ultimately conducted, helping to avoid potential negative effects on participants’ posture. The results indicated that muscle fatigue resulting from surgical tasks directly affects performance, thereby highlighting the importance of re-evaluating training protocols and movements experienced by surgeons to enhance technical performance.

The research concluded that future studies should consider the effects of fatigue and physical stress on safety and quality in surgical practices, and medical institutions should consider educational and training programs that include fatigue management and updates in training methods to improve surgical outcomes.

Electromyography Analysis and Muscle Response During High Load Campaigns

Occupies

The electrical analysis of muscles, known as EMG, has significant importance in understanding the response of various muscles during confirmed exertions such as noticeable physical effort. The highest average value of muscle activation is extracted using a sliding window of 100 milliseconds. The root mean square (RMS) and mean power frequency (MPF) will be calculated from EMG signals, with RMS expressed as a percentage of RMS during maximum voluntary electrical activity, known as %MVE. This measure is useful for understanding the capacity of muscles to endure and sustain under workload pressure.

The static, median, and peak levels of RMS for each muscle will be evaluated, helping to determine how the body’s muscles respond to fatigue. The data obtained from the control session will be compared with the fatigue session to accurately estimate the increase in %MVE and the decrease in MPF. This analysis will provide valuable insights into how muscles are affected by reduced endurance and psychological stress.

For instance, in the case of a group of resident doctors participating in the tests, the results may show that less experienced doctors suffer a greater reduction in their muscular capabilities with fatigue, necessitating the development of specialized training programs that help enhance muscular control and response under challenging conditions.

Collection and Analysis of Force Plate Data

Data extracted from force plates is a key element in understanding the events of disturbances that may occur as a result of fatigue. Programs like Senxis Force Plate Software will be used to collect this data, in conjunction with muscle activation data and kinematic data. The data will be processed through low-frequency filtering using a second-order Butterworth filter. This data includes measuring the center of pressure (COP) sliding and the speed of the center of mass movement to provide a comprehensive view of the impact of fatigue on physical posture.

Information such as the maximum sliding speeds of the center of mass in both anterior-posterior (A/P) and medial-lateral (M/L) directions will be collected. Evaluating the slide in areas like ergonomics helps assess postural outcomes. Through this analysis, various factors affecting stability and balance during complex tasks can be understood, revealing the impact of fatigue on the mechanical capabilities of fine movements.

As a practical example, one might notice the difference between the performance of experienced surgeons and novice surgeons while performing certain operations under pressure, where the analysis of COP data shows how fatigue can affect both the accuracy of movement and the speed of performance, requiring different training and development strategies based on the level of experience.

Kinematic Analysis Using Motion Capture System

Kinematic analysis is an integral part of studying how fatigue affects muscular movement. The analysis will involve using a seven-camera motion tracking system that will record data on seven joints with 18 degrees of freedom. By using a three-dimensional graphical model, different positions of the chest, arms, forearms, and hands during movement will be studied, allowing for a precise estimate of the range of motion for each physical category.

Before starting the motion capture process, measurements will be taken in a neutral position, which will help improve the accuracy of the collected data. Markers will be removed from the lower limbs to avoid any performance interference due to unnecessary movements. This analysis will provide unique insights into how the body responds, especially in the surgical context, to extreme movement demands.

When analyzing the extracted data, average angles and joint movements can be used to determine the relationship between fatigue and task performance. For example, analytical processes may show how novice surgeons, who experience greater fatigue, exhibit restrictions in their range of motion, affecting surgical outcomes. This research will contribute to improving training and developing surgical skill capabilities.

Management

Data and Sample Analysis

The sample size is one of the core elements in any medical research study. In this case, the number of samples was estimated to be 30 participants, based on the availability of trainees and surgeons during working hours. The study relied on previous research that demonstrated the effectiveness of different sample sizes, which adds more credibility to the results obtained. Precise classification processes will also be implemented to ensure that this sample matches the research objective.

Advanced data management techniques will be used, as data records will be kept in a secure place to allow researchers access without jeopardizing identity. These stringent measures will help avoid any bias and ensure scientific integrity. As for statistical analysis, specific tests such as the Wilcoxon test will be used to estimate the impact of fatigue conditions compared to control.

As an example of how data analysis will be applied, this study adopts multiple statistical methods to estimate the relationships between various factors. Utilizing methods such as ANOVA will allow for examining group-level effects and ensuring the quality of remaining data after addressing external variables. Through these analyses, evidence-based conclusions can be drawn about muscle behavior and functional capacity in surgery after exposure to periods of severe stress.

Ethics and Compliance in Research

Ethics is a pivotal aspect of the success of any study related to scientific research in the health field. The studies and associated practices have been approved by the Ethical Committee at the University of Nantes, ensuring adherence to legal and scientific standards during the trial. Participants will be required to provide informed consent, ensuring full awareness of the study’s nature and any potential risks prior to joining. These processes are essential for fostering trust between participants and researchers.

The next step involves ensuring the maintenance of medical confidentiality and data privacy. In this study, data will be stored securely and will be accessible only to the principal researchers. These policies will help ensure that no part of the sensitive information is compromised.

This study is characterized by its lack of any commercial relationships or promotional funding, reflecting the integrity of the research and enhancing the credibility of the findings. Ultimately, this scientifically-based study will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of fatigue on surgical performance, which may lead to improved surgical practices and a continuous assessment of human resources.

Environmental Factors and Their Impact on Surgical Physicians

Many medical professions, especially surgery, face significant risks that affect the work environment and the physical well-being of professionals. In this context, numerous studies have been conducted on surgical physicians to identify the causes of their related health problems. Various studies address the stressful impact of surgical practices, particularly microsurgery, that demands high precision in movement and concentration. For instance, studies show that laparoscopic surgery can lead to high electrical charges in the muscles connected to the hands, making physicians prone to fatigue and decreased activity.

Besides physical fatigue, the uncomfortable positions of physicians during surgery can adversely affect their overall performance. Most incidents stem from prolonged bending and pressure on the arms during procedures. These positions not only lead to physical fatigue but may also result in reduced performance of physicians during surgical operations, highlighting the importance of technological and training improvements in surgical practices.

The Impact of Psychological and Mental Stress on Surgical Performance

Mental stress is considered one of the main factors that affects surgeons’ performance during operations. Some studies highlight how psychological and physical pressure causes a significant decline in surgical performance. Surgical procedures require high concentration, as any distraction or psychological pressure can lead to serious errors. Experimental studies have shown that high levels of stress contribute to an increase in error rates during surgeries, affecting the accuracy of surgery and speed of performance.

Therefore,
It is essential to train surgeons not only in technical skills but also in techniques for managing psychological stress, such as relaxation and meditation exercises. This can contribute to improved performance and increased self-confidence during procedures, which positively reflects on surgical outcomes and patient safety.

Work Engineering and Its Importance in Designing Surgical Equipment

Improving the design of surgical equipment and tools is considered one of the fundamental aspects of enhancing the work environment for surgeons. By applying principles of human engineering, surgical tools can be designed in a way that reduces strain and fatigue during surgeries. Research indicates the necessity of studying the axes of surgical movements and analyzing the methods used to identify areas that need improvement. For instance, surgical tools equipped with better control mechanisms have been developed to reduce the weight balance on the arms during procedures.

These improvements are not only beneficial for surgeons but also enhance the overall experience for patients by reducing surgery time and potential inconveniences. Proper engineering, through multidisciplinary knowledge, leads to better outcomes during procedures and reflects a radical evolution in the way surgery is performed.

Training and Professional Development in Surgery

Continuous training and professional development are considered one of the key pillars for maintaining a high level of surgical performance. Advanced training programs focus on enhancing technical skills and teaching physicians how to deal with modern techniques and advancements in the field of surgery. These programs enable surgeons to stay updated on the latest research and available tools, which directly affects their quality of healthcare delivery.

Most health centers conduct training courses that include simulations of using modern technology in surgical operations. This not only helps new professionals gain experience but also provides experienced surgeons with opportunities to enhance their techniques and skills. Continuous improvement through education and development enhances surgical effectiveness and the overall quality of healthcare provided to patients.

The Impact of Fatigue on the Physical and Psychological Well-being of Surgeons

Fatigue is not only a physical manifestation but also extends to the psychological aspect, thus affecting the quality of life for healthcare professionals in general. Studies emphasize the necessity of having rest periods and specific times to reduce feelings of exhaustion. By creating work environments focused on regular breaks and comfort, productivity and efficiency in surgeons’ performance can be enhanced.

The balance between work and personal life for surgeons is crucial for achieving healthy survival and effective performance. In this context, research has shown benefits of physical activities and mental rest, so it is preferable to integrate these activities into surgeons’ schedules, contributing to overall health and increased productivity.

Source link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1423366/full

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