Ergonomic Impact of an Automated Device for Endoscopic Tool Insertion and Transfer.

Background And Aims: Endoscopists frequently experience musculoskeletal injuries, particularly in the distal upper extremities, due to substantial forces, awkward postures, and repetitive movements during procedures. A significant but underexplored risk factor is the repetitive exchange of endoscopic instruments. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an automatic endoscopic instrument insertion and transfer device, "INSERTrument," to reduce ergonomic strain and assess its impact on wrist movements and postures.