Bend the Tool, Not the Wrist: An Ergonomic Investigation of Medical Suturing Needle Holder Design and Medical Engineering Solution

Abstract

The study aimed to assess a new needle holder grip and head design on medical suturing quality and experience. Generally, suturing remained fundamentally unchanged since its invention, possessing high variability, discomfort, and can be moderately predictable. In this study, 2 grip designs (traditional holder grip and a new slightly curved crescent-shaped grip) and 2 head types (smooth vs knurled) were investigated resulting in 4 groups. Thirty-two medical interns were recruited to participate in this study. Their performances were assessed across time, symmetry, wrist posture, discomfort, and perceived difficulty. Findings revealed that the new grip led to a lesser time, better wrist posture, less discomfort, and difficulty than the traditional grip. More, the new grip with smooth head holder led to more symmetrical and shorter knots than knurled and conventional grip one. Findings are of interest for medical personnel, where it is recommended to use a smooth head and new grip needle holder while suturing for better suturing performance, wrist posture, and hand comfort.