Ergonomics in Knee Arthroscopy: A Scoping Review
Mariam Alemi, Yousof Alemi, Martinique Vella‐BaldacchinoPurpose
To evaluate the existing evidence regarding ergonomics in knee arthroscopy, including surgeon positioning, limb manipulation strategies, support devices, and reported ergonomic burden.
Methods
This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. A literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Scopus was performed from database inception to December 2025. Eligible studies addressed ergonomic considerations in knee arthroscopy. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, and findings were synthesized narratively.
Results
The search identified 1013 records, of which 8 met the inclusion criteria. The literature consisted predominantly of descriptive technical reports, alongside cross‐sectional questionnaires and 1 observational study. Routine knee arthroscopy involved sustained valgus and varus stress applied to the limb and non‐neutral postures maintained by surgeons or assistants. Positioning aids and technical innovations have been proposed; however, none have undergone objective ergonomic assessment. Surgeon‐reported data suggested that knee arthroscopy is ergonomically challenging and frequently associated with musculoskeletal discomfort.
Conclusions
The review identified 8 studies examining ergonomics in knee arthroscopy, which predominantly consisted of descriptive technical reports lacking objective ergonomic assessment. Surgeon‐reported data indicated that knee arthroscopy is frequently perceived as ergonomically challenging, with musculoskeletal discomfort most commonly affecting the lower back and shoulders.
Clinical Relevance
Knee arthroscopy places substantial physical demand on surgeons. Mapping the ergonomic challenges and limitations associated with arthroscopy may help inform future device innovation aimed at reducing work‐related musculoskeletal injury.