The ERGOROB (ERGOnomics in surgical ROBotics) study is an observational research project focused on the physical well-being of surgeons.Why is this study important?Surgeons perform complex, lengthy procedures that can lead to severe physical strain, awkward postures, and repetitive movements.This physical burden often causes musculoskeletal disorders, which can negatively impact a doctor's health and potentially shorten their career.By objectively measuring these physical demands, researchers aim to improve the design of surgical systems and training protocols.Preserving a surgeon's health and expertise ultimately enhances the quality of care provided to patients.What exactly is being studied?The research is divided into two comparative areas:Study 1: Compares the physical strain on doctors performing bowel surgery (Low Anterior Resection of the Rectum) using standard "keyhole" (laparoscopic) methods versus a robotic-assisted system called the Hugo RAS.Study 2: Compares the physical demands of using two different robotic surgical platforms (the Hugo RAS and the Da Vinci Xi) during prostate surgery (Radical Prostatectomy).What does this mean for patients?In this specific study, the surgeons are the subjects being evaluated, not the patients.Patients receive their standard, planned surgical treatment without any alterations.During the operation, the participating surgeon will wear specialized wireless equipment, including a 3D motion capture suit, muscle activity sensors, and sensorized gloves to measure hand force.The procedure is also video recorded to analyze the surgeon's movements and workflow.All wearable equipment has been thoroughly pre-tested in a simulated environment to guarantee it does not interfere with the surgeon's dexterity or comfort while operating.
Age range
40 Years – 55 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Surgeon Muscle Activity (Root Mean Square)
Timeframe: Intraoperatively
Surgeon Posture and Upper Limb Kinematics
Timeframe: Continuously during each of the 10 surgical procedures per participating surgeon (real-time acquisition)
Surgeon Hand and Finger Manipulation Forces
Timeframe: Continuously during each of the 10 surgical procedures per participating urological surgeon (real-time acquisition)
Surgeon Muscle Fatigue (Median Frequency)
Timeframe: Intraoperatively
Surgeon Muscle Strain (Sustained Activation)
Timeframe: Intraoperatively