In the january-march 2012 issue of the medical Journal “Ospedali d’Italia Chirurgia” our article entitled “Ergonomics in laparoscopy and flexible endoscopy” (authors: Miranda G, Naspetti R, Casmiro M, Miranda E, Cavassi G) has been published (see OIC 1-2012 WEB.pdf at http://www.acoi.it/pratica-clinica-e-pubblicazioni/ospedali-ditalia-chirurgia/2012/oic-1.2012/view).
This review presents a comprehensive analysis of the number of risks which health professionals performing laparoscopy and flexible endoscopy are exposed to. This article also emphasizes the need for a user-centered approach to the problem which should involve all the members of the team; the ergonomist, identified as the expert on interactions of humans and other components, should play a key role in the planning stage of operating rooms.