Evaluation of a Surgeon-Centered Laparoscopic Tool Design to Conventional Tools

Abstract

Surgeon-centered design principles were employed to design an articulating laparoscopic tool. Evaluation of this tool by 38 expert laparoscopic surgeons demonstrated that they believed the new tool could significantly reduce back, shoulder, arm, wrist and hand pain and stiffness. They preferred the new design to conventional designs for comfort and general impression. The added articulation at the grasper tip was deemed a useful addition by 92%; in addition, 89% of the surgeons would purchase the tool once it was on the market. This study demonstrates that good surgeon-centered design can improve a standard laparoscopic tool. It further demonstrates that given a choice between current tools and ergonomically designed tools, laparoscopic surgeons will select the more comfortable, useful tool.

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