The first product I have reviewed is the CordEze. It is a device you wear around your wrist to help hold the cords from dental handpieces (ultrasonic) in place. This helps to reduce hand fatigue by reducing pull.
It was created by a dental hygienist for dental professionals. The CordEze now comes in 7mm and 8mm size and various colors, it is only about 0.7 ounces. The two different models are autoclavable ($32.99) and original ($24.99). The original can still be disinfected with an intermediate level of disinfectant.
Multiple studies have shown musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are extremely common with dental professionals, in particular; head/neck, back, and arms/hands. We know diameter, weight and materials used with instruments can make a difference in reducing clinical fatigue. For corded instruments there is additional pull and stress during instrumentation. Cordless handpieces exist but at this time ultrasonic design still require a cord. Reducing pull/tension can reduce MSD severity. Citations of the studies are listed below.
I was taught to hold the ultrasonic cord with my pinkie. I know some clinicians were taught to put it around their risk, over the shoulder or not to hold it at all. I always felt my method was adequate for me but I wanted to try it out anyways. The hardest part for me was breaking the 10 year habit. The first few times I used the wristband I had the attachment placed under my wrist. I noticed the cord kept falling out so when I adjusted the band to the attachment on top of my wrist (like a watch), I had much better success. Once I got used to it, I didn’t really notice it. I did have to readjust my instrumentation sequence so I didn’t have to take in on and off, but once I changed that up it was much easier to use. I am NOT a super germaphobe so I had the orginival band and I used disinfectant wipes (Cavi Wipes) between patients. The CordEze does come in multiple packs so you can order the autoclavable bands and sterilize them between patients. View videos here to see various ways to keep them barriered.
Overall I give this product a 4 out of 5 gold crowns! I gave this a 4 because I want to see scientific studies on the bands (which I hear are coming) and I believe overtime it may have a difficult time holding the cord in place. Even without the evidence of preventing MSDs I believe prevention is key and anything that may help reduce or prevent an disorders or injuries in our profession is important.
Thank you my fellow Tooth Fairies, now go create beautiful smiles!
**Update** Since my video review CordEze has developed a new product called the HiLo. It is an attachment that is placed on the Cordeze that can hold some HVE hoses and low speed hoses. It is the same concept but allows dentist and auxiliaries the same relief.
Citations:
Hayes, Melanie J., Smith, Derek R., & Taylor, Jane A. (2014). Musculoskeletal disorders in a 3 year longitudinal cohort of dental hygiene students. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 88(1), 36-41.
Warren, N. (2010). Causes of musculoskeletal disorders in dental hygienists and dental hygiene students: A study of combined biomechanical and psychosocial risk factors. Work, 35(4), 441-454.
Johnson, Courtenay R., & Kanji, Zul. (2016). The impact of occupation-related musculoskeletal disorders on dental hygienists. Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene, 50(2), 72-79.
McCombs, Gayle, & Russell, Daniel M. (2014). Comparison of corded and cordless handpieces on forearm muscle activity, procedure time and ease of use during simulated tooth polishing. Journal of Dental Hygiene, 88(6), 386-393.
Simmer-Beck, M., & Branson, B. (2010). An evidence-based review of ergonomic features of dental hygiene instruments. Work-A Journal Of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, 35(4), 477-485.
Smith, Sommerich, Mirka, & George. (2002). An investigation of ergonomic interventions in dental hygiene work. Applied Ergonomics, 33(2), 175-184.