Surgical Ergonomics

Session

Dr. Carlos Aznar Portoles, MSc Endodontics

Course description

Endodontic microsurgery is a highly demanding procedure that requires precision, stability and prolonged visual concentration. While magnification and modern microsurgical techniques have significantly improved treatment outcomes, they also introduce important ergonomic challenges for the clinician and the dental team.

This lecture will explore the fundamental principles of ergonomics in surgical endodontics and how the clinical environment can be optimized to improve efficiency, precision and operator comfort. Particular attention will be given to patient and operator positioning, microscope ergonomics, six-handed dentistry, instrument organization and workflow during microsurgical procedures.

Through practical examples and clinical cases, participants will learn how small modifications in posture, positioning and teamwork can reduce physical strain, facilitate access to difficult surgical areas and create a more controlled and predictable working environment.

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental ergonomic principles involved in endodontic microsurgery and their influence on clinical performance.
• Optimize patient, operator and microscope positioning for different surgical sites and anatomical situations.
• Organize the surgical team, instruments and six-handed workflow to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary movements during microsurgical procedures.
• Identify common ergonomic errors during endodontic surgery and implement strategies to reduce fatigue and musculoskeletal strain while maintaining precision and visual control.

Expect to learn

• How to apply ergonomic principles specifically to endodontic microsurgery in order to improve precision, efficiency and operator comfort.
• Practical strategies for optimizing operator and patient positioning, microscope setup, instrument transfer and four-handed workflow.
• How to identify and correct common ergonomic mistakes that can lead to unnecessary movement, fatigue and musculoskeletal strain.