Citations 2
Ergonomic Assessments and Intervention Implementation: An ENT Surgeons Case Study
Li, Yifan , Shikanov, Eve , Valencia, David, Andera, Luke , Cappelle, Quintin , Hallbeck, M. Susan
Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting | September 10, 2026 | Volume: No volume available | Issue: No issue available | Pages: No page available
Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons often perform multiple daily procedures requiring sustained postures while wearing headlights or loupes, increasing the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This in situ case study aimed to (1) evaluate ENT surgeon workload and (2) introduce ergonomic interventions through workflow changes, education, and personal protective equipment. Three trained ergonomists observed the intraoperative workflow of three ENT surgeons at a tertiary academic hospital, identifying awkward postures. Surgeons received education on surgical microbreaks and OR-Stretch before trialing passive exoskeletons. Exoskeleton effectiveness was evaluated using interviews and surveys. Workflow interventions improved neck posture. One surgeon reported reduced body-part discomfort but increased subjective workload when using the exoskeleton, while interviews identified aesthetic concerns. This exploratory case study identified workflow issues and introduced ergonomic interventions. Although one surgeon reported reduced discomfort with an exoskeleton, larger studies are needed to establish quantitative trends.
Prevalence of “Reversal Nystagmus” in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Walter, Jeffrey , Azeredo, William J., Greene, J. Scott , Andera, Luke
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology | April 19, 2021 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 35-38
Abstract Purpose To investigate the prevalence of reversal nystagmus in individuals with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Study Design Prevalence of reversal nystagmus was assessed in 28 subjects with unilateral posterior canal BPPV, canalithiasis type. Six trials of Dix-Hallpike testing were completed for each subject. Results Reversal nystagmus was present in 129 out of 167 Dix-Hallpike maneuvers that were performed (77.2%). In 19 trials where nystagmus was absent with the dependent position of Dix-Hallpike testing, reversal nystagmus was nonetheless demonstrated in 11 trials (57.9%). Conclusion Reversal nystagmus is commonly demonstrated in individuals with posterior canal BPPV, canalithiasis type. It is frequently evoked even when there is no nystagmus with the dependent position of Dix-Hallpike testing. Observation of reversal nystagmus may enhance the identification of BPPV during Dix-Hallpike testing.