Dr. Michael Wilsey gave our group an excellent update on Endoscopy Pearls and Ergonomics. My notes below may contain errors in transcription and in omission. Along with my notes, I have included many of his slides.

Yesterday’s post focused on endoscopy pearls. Today’s post focuses on ergonomics. Most of the attendees realized that we could use a lot of improvement in this area after listening to this presentation. This issue is likely of even greater importance in those with a high endoscopy case load.

• A high percentage of gastroenterologists/pediatric gastroenterologists develop injuries related to repetitive endoscopy procedures.  These can be mitigated using proper ergonomics.  Although this advice is pretty straight forward, a lot of endoscopists could benefit from careful attention to this.

• Keep Monitor near eye level and in front of you (don’t torque your neck)

• Maintain good posture. Can start by standing upright against a wall

• Position bed so elbows can be in a fairly neutral position with bed not more than 10 cm below elbows

• Two-piece lead aprons helpful to distribute weight better

• Handle endoscope more like holding a pencil than using a firm grip
• Cushioned mat and cushioned soles can help with standing posture/fatigue