Characteristics of hand motion of eye surgeons

Abstract

Overall manual accuracy and motion frequency in simulated microsurgery have been studied. Eye surgeons were tested in two tasks: attempting to hold an instrument still, and repeatedly actuating. The RMS error and overall motion range were measured. Spectral analysis was also performed. The average RMS errors for the two test conditions were 49 /spl mu/m and 133 /spl mu/m, respectively, and the average range of motion while trying to hold still was 202 /spl mu/m. Substantial low-frequency motion occurred under both conditions. On average, 98.9% of the total power of voluntary movements tested was found to be below 2 Hz.