Quantitative Ergonomic Comparison of Traditional Versus
Endoscopic-Assisted Tonsillectomies: A Prospective Case-Control Study
Abstract
Five succinct key points: -Otolaryngologists are at high risk for
ergonomic injury, particularly in the neck and cervical spine region. -
There is a need to use validated ergonomic assessment tools to quantify
the amount of risk in specific otolaryngology procedures and identify
alternative methods to decrease that risk. -The physical positioning of
the senior author was studied using the RULA score during two different
operative approaches to tonsillectomy: one using an endoscope and one
using direct visualization without the aid of an endoscope. - The RULA
score for the traditional, non-endoscopic approach was 5, with a Neck,
Trunk, and Leg Score of 6 and a Wrist/Arm score of 1, demonstrating a
high risk and suggesting a need for further investigation and change.
The RULA score for the endoscopic-assisted approach was 3, with a Neck,
Trunk, and Leg score of 4 and a Wrist/Arm score of 1. -An
endoscopic-assisted approach to tonsillectomy allowed for a lower RULA
score than traditional tonsillectomy. This study suggests that an
endoscopic approach may decrease the potential for musculoskeletal
strain and reduce occupational-related pain and injury seen in
practicing otolaryngologists.