Program Overview

OR-Stretch is a web-based intraoperative microbreak system developed at Mayo Clinic to reduce musculoskeletal fatigue among surgeons and operating room personnel. It introduces brief, guided stretch breaks during surgery without disrupting workflow or extending operative time.

Why OR-Stretch Matters in Surgery

Modern surgery—especially laparoscopic, robotic, and long open procedures—demands prolonged static postures, neck flexion, shoulder elevation, and fine motor control. Over time, this contributes to neck, shoulder, back, and upper-limb discomfort, reduced concentration, and cumulative occupational injury.

OR-Stretch addresses these issues through planned microbreaks, promoting surgeon longevity, comfort, and sustained performance.

How OR-Stretch Works

• A non-sterile team member activates the web application.

• The system provides timed audio or visual prompts (default ~40 minutes).

• Each prompt leads to 30–60 seconds of simple, safe stretches that can be performed while maintaining sterility.

• Prompts can be snoozed or adjusted based on operative phase.

Key Features

• ✔ Free, web-based, no special hardware

• ✔ No interference with surgical equipment or EMR

• ✔ Adjustable reminder intervals

• ✔ Suitable for all surgical specialties

• ✔ Requires no formal training

Safety and Practical Use

• Stretches are low-risk and optional.

• Surgeons stretch only within comfort limits—no force, no pain.

• Can be skipped during critical steps and resumed later.

• Does not increase operative time or compromise patient safety.

Benefits Observed

• Reduced neck, shoulder, and back fatigue

• Improved physical endurance during long cases

• Better focus and situational awareness

• Supports career sustainability for surgeons

Clinical experience and ergonomic studies support the concept that microbreaks enhance surgeon well-being without affecting operative efficiency.

Who Should Use OR-Stretch

• Laparoscopic and robotic surgeons

• Surgeons performing long open procedures

• Endoscopists and interventional specialists

• Entire OR teams involved in prolonged standing

OR-Stretch is an intraoperative microbreak system developed to support the surgical team with short, guided stretches aimed at reducing musculoskeletal fatigue without interrupting operative workflow. 

1. What is OR-Stretch?

OR-Stretch is a web-based tool that prompts short stretch breaks during surgery. It was designed by ergonomists, occupational and physical therapists, and surgeons to counteract the physical strains associated with prolonged surgical postures. 

2. How does OR-Stretch benefit the operative day?

• Provides brief, targeted microbreaks to reduce strain and discomfort.

• Helps maintain mental focus and physical performance throughout long cases.

• Integrates smoothly into surgical workflow without extension of operative time. 

Evidence suggests that intraoperative microbreaks can ease shoulder and neck fatigue and improve surgeon endurance with minimal distraction. 

3. Is there any cost to use OR-Stretch?

No. OR-Stretch is free to use via the web application. 

4. What types of procedures can use OR-Stretch?

Any surgical procedure where the team remains in static postures for significant periods can benefit — from minimally invasive laparoscopic cases to open surgeries requiring prolonged standing. 

5. How do we access and log in?

Surgeons or team members can log in at the OR-Stretch website using a surgeon’s email address. A non-sterile team member can start and manage the stretch breaks without disrupting sterile fields. 

6. Who participates in the stretches?

All members of the surgical team can participate, but data collection (if used for feedback or research) focuses on the surgeon. A non-sterile assistant typically initiates and controls the stretch prompts. 

7. Does OR-Stretch interfere with surgical technology?

No. OR-Stretch uses simple web-based audio prompts and timers that run independently of the hospital EMR and other OR technology. 

8. What if stretching causes discomfort?

Surgeons should follow general stretching principles: stretch within comfort limits, avoid pain, and stop if any exercise causes discomfort. 

9. How often should reminders occur?

The default reminder interval is 40 minutes, adjustable between approximately 20 to 55 minutes based on case length and surgeon preference. 

10. What if the reminder appears at an inconvenient time?

OR-Stretch allows you to snooze the prompt so that stretches occur at an appropriate, safe point in your workflow. 

11. Do I need training to use it?

No formal training is required. OR-Stretch provides online instructions and demonstration videos that can be posted in the OR for quick reference. 

12. Does OR-Stretch shorten a surgeon’s career?

Actually, by mitigating musculoskeletal fatigue and potentially slowing cumulative ergonomic strain, OR-Stretch may support longer careers and reduce discomfort inherent to surgical practice. 

Conclusion

As minimally invasive surgeons, we understand the physical demand of long cases. OR-Stretch is a thoughtful, evidence-based tool to help preserve musculoskeletal health and maintain performance throughout the surgical day.