Development of the Surgistretch Mobile Exercise Application for Gynecologic Surgeons to Reduce Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders

INTRODUCTION: High-volume gynecologic surgeons are at risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Up to 12% of surgeons go on to require practice modification, a leave of absence, or early retirement as a result of WMSDs. Certain exercises and microbreaks during surgery have been found to decrease pain for surgeons. OBJECTIVE: To develop a mobile application (app) that can be easily used by gynecologic surgeons to help reduce WMSDs. Our app demonstrates exercises that can be performed during intraoperative microbreaks, in between operative cases, and at home. METHODS: High-volume gynecologic surgeons were evaluated at a single academic institution by a physical therapist and biomechanist. After observing ergonomics during surgery, an exercise program for 1) intraoperative microbreaks, 2) in between operative cases, and 3) at home was created. Demonstrations of these exercises were recorded, and the SurgiStretch: Exercises for the Gynecologic Surgeon app was created. RESULTS: The SurgiStretch app presents a program of 29 exercises developed by a physical therapist and biomechanist to reduce WMSDs and mitigate injury risk from gynecologic surgery. These exercises are categorized within the app for three different settings. CONCLUSIONS: Ergonomic programs can help to reduce WMSDs for gynecologic surgeons. Targeted exercises designed by a physical therapist and trained motion specialist are easy, feasible, and accessible through our new mobile app (Figures 1 and 2).