NCT07609420 · University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
Surgical Ergonomics in OBGYN
What this study is about
This is a voluntary research study to implement and assess the effectiveness of interventions aimed to improve surgical ergonomics in OBGYN residents, fellows, and attendings and decrease the incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD).
View original scientific description
This is a voluntary research study to implement and assess the efficacy of interventions aimed to improve surgical ergonomics in OBGYN residents, fellows, and attendings and decrease the incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD). We want to learn the baseline incidence of WMRD in our population and to see if the implementation of a surgical ergonomics lecture, pre-operative surgical ergonomics time-out, and intra-operative stretch breaks will improve the incidence of WRMD in this population.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Surgical Ergonomics Lecture
60 min lecture regarding surgical ergonomics
BEHAVIORAL
Pre-Incision Surgical Ergonomics Time Out
Pre-incision time-out (30-60s) focusing on surgical ergonomics in OR prior to starting a surgery
BEHAVIORAL
Intra-operative stretch breaks
30-60s breaks every 90 min to perform stretches during a surgical procedure
Primary outcome measures
Symptom frequency as measured by the Cornell Muscular Discomfort (MSK) Questionnaire
Time frame: weekly x 12 months
Symptom frequency is measured on a likert scale of 0-4, with 0 being never and 4 being several times a day.
Symptom severity as measured by the Cornell Muscular Discomfort (MSK) Questionnaire
Time frame: weekly x 12 months
Symptom severity is measured on a scale of 0-3, with 0 being slightly uncomfortable and 3 being very uncomfortable.
Work interference as measured by the Cornell Muscular Discomfort (MSK) Questionnaire
Time frame: weekly x 12 months
Work interference is measured on a scale of 0-3, with 0 being not at all and 3 being substantially interfered.
Total Cornell Muscular Discomfort Scores
Time frame: Weekly x 12 months
For each body region, a region-specific Cornell MSK discomfort score will be calculated as: Frequency × Severity × Work Interference. This yields a possible score range of 0-36 per body region.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Current attending in the OBGYN department at University Hospitals Current resident or fellow in the OBGYN department at University Hospitals Participation in laparoscopic or open surgical procedures
Exclusion criteria
- Not a current fellow, resident, or attending in the OBGYN department at University Hospitals
Where
- Beachwood, Ohio
- Cleveland, Ohio
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 20, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations