FAQs

Written By Seth VanHorn

1. What is an exoskeleton?

An exoskeleton is a wearable device designed to reduce strain and provide assistance to the user’s body during repetitive or physically demanding tasks. Hapo exoskeletons are specifically designed to reduce strain on the arms, shoulders, and back during prolonged and repetitive movements, improving comfort and reducing fatigue.

2. What are the different types of Hapo exoskeletons?

Hapo Front

  • Designed to support the upper limbs, shoulders, and elbows of plastic surgeons.

  • Reduces strain and improves working conditions during procedures requiring extended arm use within a 0° to 135° range and a 180° horizontal amplitude.

Hapo Back

  • Designed to assist surgeons with postural or joint strain.

  • Provides back support and helps maintain optimal posture, whether in full flexion or standing.

  • Redirects load from the upper trunk (via pectoral support) to the thighs using springs while stabilizing the lumbar area with a supportive belt.

Hapo CS

  • Designed to minimize musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risks during both partial and full back bending.

  • Provides gentle lumbar support through a belt system and secure posture through chest support.

  • Specially designed to disperse contact strain on the upper torso, making it well-suited for women.

3. Do Hapo exoskeletons come in different sizes?

  • Hapo Front – One universal size (adjustable upon request).

  • Hapo Back – Available in three sizes.

    • Size 1: 5.2” to 5.7”. Size 2: 5.7” to 6.4”. Size 3: 6.4” to 6.6” and above.

  • Hapo CS – Available in three heights and two vest sizes.

    • Sizes: 4.9 ft to 5.2 ft S1 - 5.4 ft to 5.7 ft S2 - 5.9 ft to 6.2 ft S3

    • Vest Sizes: 28 inches to 35 in S1 - 35 inches to 42 in S2

4. Are Hapo exoskeletons washable?

  • Yes, the fabric components can be machine-washed.

  • Hard components (like fiberglass support rods) should be wiped clean with alcohol wipes.

5. Do you recommend the 4 lb or 6 lb support rods for Hapo Front?

  • For surgical applications, the 4 lb support rods are recommended.

  • The 6 lb rods require more effort to lower the arms, which may not be ideal since most plastic surgery tools weigh only 2 to 3 lbs.

6. Do Hapo exoskeletons cause muscle atrophy (muscle weakness)?

  • No. Hapo exoskeletons support the body without fully taking over muscle activity, similar to how an assisted bike works — enhancing endurance without causing muscle loss.

7. What is the difference between the industrial and surgical versions of Hapo exoskeletons?

  • The surgical version of Hapo Front includes thicker, softer arm pads made from medical-grade fabric, ensuring greater comfort during long procedures.

8. Are there specific operations better suited for Hapo exoskeletons?

  • Hapo Front – Ideal for repetitive tasks like liposuction; also used for microsurgeries to improve hand stability.

  • Hapo Back – Best for procedures requiring leaning over the patient’s body.

9. Are there clinical studies proving the effectiveness of Hapo exoskeletons?

10. Do Hapo exoskeletons restrict freedom of movement?

  • No, studies show that they do not significantly limit freedom of movement.

11. What should I say to someone who exercises and thinks they don’t need an exoskeleton?

  • "That’s great, keep it up! But it’s not enough. In the gym, you can focus on your posture. In the OR, your focus is on the patient, not your body. Almost all surgeons experience back and shoulder pain; that’s where an exoskeleton helps. As one surgeon said: 'Work your shoulders at the gym, not in the OR.'”

12. Can Hapo exoskeletons be worn under a surgical gown?

  • Yes, but some surgeons prefer wearing a gown one size larger for extra comfort when using a Hapo Front.

13. Do Hapo Front’s elbow straps cause any issues with arm scrubbing?

  • No known issues. However, optional elbow covers are available for added sanitation.

14. Can Hapo Front and Hapo Back be worn at the same time?

  • Currently, no. However, the R&D team is working on a solution to combine both functions.

15. Does Hapo offer a neck exoskeleton?

  • Yes, but it's designed for industrial use (e.g., overhead work), not surgical applications. The R&D team is working on a surgical version.

16. Do Hapo exoskeletons help with neck strain?

  • Indirectly, yes. Hapo Front reduces shoulder strain, which can relieve tension in the trapezius muscles and reduce neck strain.



Seth VanHorn
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