An exoskeleton designed to reduce strain and combat muscular fatigue during long hours in the operating room could ease surgeons’ stress.
Kapil Sahnan, a UK colorectal surgeon at St Mark’s The National Bowel Hospital in London, is the first to wear the device during a seven-hour procedure.
The exoskeleton suit is worn over scrubs and designed to support the arms and shoulders during prolonged surgical procedures.
He said: ‘Surgery can be physically demanding, especially during longer procedures, which can last many hours and being hunched over an operating table is not great for your posture. This is a welcome piece of kit for surgeons.’
Andre Jutel from Stanley, specialist experts in this area, assessed Kapil’s movement using their ErgoScan app before the procedure.
The Hapo Front exoskeleton was recommended because it helps reduce fatigue and supports surgeons in working comfortably and with precision.
The lightweight exoskeleton, which comprises adjustable back, shoulder and arm straps, supports the wearer's musculoskeletal structure and maintains freedom of movement without restriction.
Kapil said: ‘It’s good because you can maintain the dexterity of your hands while performing surgery. During the training, I did feel like I was being measured for a suit, but the exoskeleton is surprisingly easy to put on and adjust. It is certainly something I will be using again. We’re a specialised hospital with a small niche workforce, so we can’t afford to have surgeons going off sick with issues like muscular disorders, which is a common side effect of the profession.’
Graham Sharp, Managing Director of Stanley, added: ‘The fantastic feedback from Mr Sahnan and his team demonstrates how exoskeleton technology is supporting the profession, particularly during lengthy operations. We advised the team at St Mark's on the best technology for this type of procedure and supplied training along with the HAPO Front exoskeleton.
‘AI-powered wearable technology is already revolutionising professional workflows across the healthcare sector, significantly mitigating physical fatigue. We are moving toward a future where exoskeleton equipment will be a standard fixture in operating theatres throughout the UK.’
