Technologies

Back and neck pain is a common problem for surgeons working in operating rooms. Surgeons can work many arduous hours while leaning uncomfortably over the operating table with excessive physical exertion. Such operations can put substantial stress on the surgeon's lower back and neck, causing considerable pain, and in some situations require corrective surgery. In addition, it can increase overall surgery time and prolong patients remaining under general anesthesia as the surgeon becomes more fatigued, which may increase the risk of infection. Clearly, solutions are needed for this occupational health problem faced by surgeons. There are surgeon support devices available; however, they are complex, space-consuming, and not easily modifiable for quick adjustments during surgery. Drs. Schechet and Eggers at Baylor College of Medicine developed an innovative surgical chest-supporting/stand device for surgeons, the "Doc Prop". It relieves surgeon back strain by supporting the torso and includes adjustable length to fit different surgeon heights and adjustable angle for optimal comfort. The device attaches to surgical table flat side rails, thus requires no floor space. "Doc Prop" provides a simple, space efficient, comfortable means to fully support the torso of a standing surgeon working over an operating table to reduce fatigue and back/neck pain without compromising range of movement.