Ergonomic considerations in endoscopic sinus surgery: Lessons learned from laparoscopic surgeons

Background: Endoscopic sinus procedures are increasingly common, and more technically difficult procedures are being undertaken to provide patients with minimally invasive alternatives to traditional open surgical techniques. However, such endoscopic approaches have increasing physical demands on the surgeon. The aim of this review is to summarize current literature on surgical ergonomic principles as they relate to endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery and focus on future needs for our specialty. Methods: Literature review was performed of surgical ergonomics and, particularly, laparoscopic ergonomic principles. Results: Existing ergonomic principles for laparoscopic surgery can be applied to endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery and can be expected to offer benefits in terms of surgeon fatigue, physical discomfort, and task efficiency. Conclusion: Increasing surgeon awareness will allow for many basic ergonomic principles to be applied to endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. Although many simple changes can be immediately made, there is a clear need for further study and abundant room for innovation.