Surgical Ergonomics Task Force to Drive Change in Surgeon Well-Being and Performance
The AAGL Strategic Plan underscores our commitment to advancing global surgical standards through innovation and whole-person care. While patient-centeredness remains essential, it is increasingly clear that prioritizing surgeon well-being is equally critical to healthcare quality, safety, and sustainability.
A recent study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology (JMIG, July 2024) by Young RJ et al. found that over 95% of gynecologic surgeons experience pain during or after surgery. Nearly one in four reported altering their surgical approach due to pain, and over 60% expressed concern about their long-term ability to operate. Notably, 98% of respondents advocated for formal ergonomic training, yet a majority lacked confidence in setting up their operating room ergonomically.
In response, AAGL is launching a Surgical Ergonomics Task Force to address these pressing issues head-on. This initiative builds on the momentum from the 2024 Global Congress General Session and aligns with our mission to enhance surgeon longevity, reduce burnout, and promote innovation.
Key Objectives:
- Advance Surgeon Health and Career Sustainability: Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS), while beneficial for patients, imposes physical strain on surgeons. Musculoskeletal injuries contribute to early retirement and decreased operative capacity. Ergonomic reform is vital for career preservation and workforce resilience.
- Enhance Patient Safety and Surgical Performance: Fatigue and physical discomfort degrade technical precision and increase error risk. By optimizing ergonomics, we support safer surgeries and better outcomes.
- Establish Ergonomic Standards in MIGS: Despite growing awareness, standardized ergonomic guidelines are lacking. The task force will develop evidence-based best practices and training tailored to gynecologic surgery. It will also engage industry partners in designing tools and technologies that reflect real-world surgeon needs.
Anticipated Deliverables:
- Surgical Ergonomics White Paper
- Practice Guidelines
- Educational modules and training curriculum
- Research collaborations and industry engagement strategy
The task force will consist of AAGL members actively innovating or conducting research in ergonomics, along with key opinion leaders and representatives across genders, ages, practice settings, and surgical approaches. AAGL has long been a leader in surgical innovation. This initiative represents another vital frontier—one that elevates not only patient care but also safeguards the physical and mental health of our surgical workforce.
If you are interested in participating in the Surgical Ergonomics Task Force, please complete an application by September 20, 2025.
The time for change is now. Join us.
