Gastroenterologists’ goals for ergonomic colonoscopes: results of a national survey

Background and Aims: Survey-based studies show a high prevalence of endoscopy-related injury. The present survey aimed to provide data regarding the type of design changes to the colonoscope that would be most beneficial for gastroenterologists to facilitate user-centered design changes. Methods: A 26-item anonymous, electronic, multiple-choice survey was answered by 455 gastroenterologists. Information obtained included demographic data (age, sex), workload parameters (current practice type, years practicing, time spent performing endoscopy), and questions related to colonoscope maneuvers and design (hand size, ease of use of tip angulation controls, impact of shaft parameters, use of right-hand torque, use of dial extenders, future desired design changes). Data analysis was performed with the use of IBM SPSS 29.0. Results: The survey respondents included a broad distribution of representative groups, with 55.3% in private practice, 31.4% women, and 51.5% having >10 years in practice. A total of 85.7% favored a pro-ergonomic colonoscope redesign, with customizability for hand size of the control knobs (85%) and decreased force required for “up/down” knob manipulation (78%) being the most desired features. Women were statistically more likely to desire a more ergonomic colonoscope and customizability for hand size (P < .001). Conclusions: This article reports the results of the first national survey to assess gastroenterologist preferences for ergonomic colonoscope design changes. The colonoscope changes that respondents prioritized were those pertaining to customizability for hand size and more easily manipulated control surfaces. Professional societies and industry should work together to design scopes more aligned with best ergonomic principles.