Shedding Light on Rhinoplasty: Optimal Headlight Angle and Cervical Positioning for Illumination of the Surgical Field.

Optimal visualization during rhinoplasty is essential for surgical success, yet improper headlight angle and cervical neck positioning can reduce illumination and contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in surgeons. This study aimed to determine the ideal combination of headlight angle and cervical flexion that maximizes lighting of the surgical field while minimizing physical strain. A 3D-printed nasal model was used to simulate surgical conditions, and illumination was measured using a PerfectPrime LM531 LED lux meter. Headlight angles of 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 degrees were tested in combination with cervical neck flexion angles of 0, 15, 30, and 45 degrees, using a Ronin X6 surgical headlight positioned at both brow and mid-forehead levels. Measurements were taken in a light-controlled testing chamber, and angles were precisely measured using anatomic landmarks and protractors. The highest illumination (3240 lux) was recorded with a 40-degree headlight angle and 30-degree cervical flexion at the mid-forehead position. A similar lux value (3020) was achieved with a 35-degree headlight angle and 26-degree cervical flexion. Illumination declined significantly at the extremes of flexion and extension, and higher flexion angles were associated with increased reports of musculoskeletal fatigue during testing. Based on these findings, a headlight angle of 35 degrees and cervical flexion of 25 degrees provided optimal lighting while minimizing physical strain and may serve as a recommended starting point for trainees and experienced surgeons. These results offer practical guidance for improving ergonomics and visualization during rhinoplasty and have potential applications in surgical education and setup standardization.