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Background <p>Minimally invasive surgery improves patient outcomes but introduces ergonomic and workflow inefficiencies due to frequent instrument changes. Symphera GmbH developed a novel laparoscopic prototype enabling intracorporeal tool tip switching, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce surgical interruptions.</p> Methods <p>Seven experienced surgeons evaluated the prototype during standardized tasks using excised animal tissue in a simulated laparoscopic environment. The tasks assessed precision, ergonomics, and tool-switching functionality. Quantitative data were obtained by video analysis; qualitative insights were gathered via semi-structured interviews and a post-procedural questionnaire.</p> Results <p>All participants completed the tasks successfully, with no safety concerns. A total of 148 tool changes were performed. The automated exchange sequence required a constant mechanical time of 2.6&#xa0;s, with a median overall changing time of 3.4&#xa0;s. A total of 148 tool changes were performed. Tool-changing errors occurred in 4.73% of the changes, and 6.08% of changes resulted in software errors that required reboots. Changing time had no significant impact on overall task duration. The precision of monopolar application was high, and all targets were accurately reached. Questionnaire responses rated tool exchange positively, while ergonomics were judged moderate; female participants highlighted weight and comfort limitations, reflecting gender-related differences in usability. Qualitative analysis revealed both device improvement needs and strong enthusiasm for its potential to streamline workflows and enhance surgical autonomy.</p> Conclusion <p>The prototype was safe, functional, and well-received. While software instability and ergonomic refinements remain necessary, the system demonstrated feasibility for rapid intracorporeal tool switching and showed promise for reducing operative inefficiencies. Further technical development and clinical trials are warranted to establish its clinical and economic value.</p>

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Redefining surgical workflow efficiency: evaluation of a novel laparoscopic multi-tool prototype

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年11月3日

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  • Fabian Haak,
  • Hans-Michael Tautenhahn,
  • Uwe Scheuermann,
  • Daniel Seehofer,
  • Antonello Forgione,
  • Jacques Marescaux

摘要

Background

Minimally invasive surgery improves patient outcomes but introduces ergonomic and workflow inefficiencies due to frequent instrument changes. Symphera GmbH developed a novel laparoscopic prototype enabling intracorporeal tool tip switching, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce surgical interruptions.

Methods

Seven experienced surgeons evaluated the prototype during standardized tasks using excised animal tissue in a simulated laparoscopic environment. The tasks assessed precision, ergonomics, and tool-switching functionality. Quantitative data were obtained by video analysis; qualitative insights were gathered via semi-structured interviews and a post-procedural questionnaire.

Results

All participants completed the tasks successfully, with no safety concerns. A total of 148 tool changes were performed. The automated exchange sequence required a constant mechanical time of 2.6 s, with a median overall changing time of 3.4 s. A total of 148 tool changes were performed. Tool-changing errors occurred in 4.73% of the changes, and 6.08% of changes resulted in software errors that required reboots. Changing time had no significant impact on overall task duration. The precision of monopolar application was high, and all targets were accurately reached. Questionnaire responses rated tool exchange positively, while ergonomics were judged moderate; female participants highlighted weight and comfort limitations, reflecting gender-related differences in usability. Qualitative analysis revealed both device improvement needs and strong enthusiasm for its potential to streamline workflows and enhance surgical autonomy.

Conclusion

The prototype was safe, functional, and well-received. While software instability and ergonomic refinements remain necessary, the system demonstrated feasibility for rapid intracorporeal tool switching and showed promise for reducing operative inefficiencies. Further technical development and clinical trials are warranted to establish its clinical and economic value.