Prospective comparative validation of a novel endoscopy chair and endoscope manipulation apparatus (EasyFlex) for ergonomic improvement in fURS procedures

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to validate the functionality and usability of a doctor's endoscopy chair and an endoscope carrying/manipulation apparatus known as the EasyFlex. METHODS: Prototype models of the EasyFlex apparatus were evaluated by five expert urologists specializing in endourology at three medical centers. The surgical and ergonomic advantages of the doctor's endoscopy chair and the endoscope carrying/manipulation apparatus were compared with those used during traditional flexible ureterorenoscopy (fURS) procedures for kidney stones, with ergonomic outcomes assessed using the Ergomini scale. RESULTS: The ergonomic evaluation of both systems revealed that surgeons experienced significantly greater ergonomic discomfort during traditional fURS procedures compared to those using the EasyFlex system, as indicated by higher total ergonomic scores (37.6 vs. 12.6, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the EasyFlex group demonstrated a significantly lower rate of intraoperative complications than the traditional fURS group (11.8% vs. 27%, p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Compared with the traditional approach, the results obtained in our study demonstrated that the EasyFlex apparatus could provide superior ergonomic conditions during fURS procedures. Additionally, the rate of intraoperative complications was lower in the EasyFlex group.