Ergonomic considerations in the design of neurosurgery instruments

Abstract

Surgical instruments should be designed to optimize control and interact with tissues or other objects while avoiding surgeon fatigue, muscle spasms, tissue ischemia, and injuries. Several well-established ergonomic criteria can be used in the design of instruments. Analysis of some commonly used bone biting instruments reveal how they violate these criteria. The thoughtful redesign of instruments using these principles is recommended.