Prevention of MSDs in the Operating Room: The Contribution of Artificial Intelligence and Exoskeletons to the Ergonomic Assessment of Surgical Teams

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent a major occupational health issue in operating rooms. Numerous studies have reported a high prevalence of pain, fatigue, numbness, and stiffness among surgeons, particularly during minimally invasive procedures, which impose greater ergonomic constraints than open surgery. These disorders can significantly impact professional practice, leading to changes in surgical techniques, work absenteeism, and even premature retirement. In this context, exoskeletons have emerged as a promising solution to reduce biomechanical strain and improve surgeon comfort. Recent studies have demonstrated a reduction in perceived discomfort and improved operative efficiency associated with their use.
To identify high-risk situations at an early stage, the Hapo LEA application provides an automated ergonomic assessment based on short video recordings. Using an artificial intelligence algorithm, body segments are detected and analyzed according to the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method, a widely recognized ergonomic evaluation tool. Results are presented through numerical scores and visual outputs that objectively quantify the level of ergonomic risk. This solution facilitates the ergonomic assessment of healthcare professionals in the operating room and supports the implementation of appropriate preventive measures, including the recommendation of exoskeletons when relevant.