New technical solution to minimise noise exposure for surgical staff: the ‘silent operating theatre optimisation system

Abstract

The increasing number of technical equipment in the operating room (OR) is resulting in significantly higher noise levels. The more complex and sophisticated the surgical procedure is, the more essential it is for all team members of the OR to work together in a harmonious fashion to process and manage their demanding team tasks. With increasing noise in OR, the risk of more frequent errors also increases. The reduction of noise production in the OR is possible but limited. The aim of this study was to develop a device that reduces ambient noise for the operating team without hindering their ability to communicate. We developed a new communication technology set-up for the OR to meet all needed requirements. All members of the operating team are issued headsets with microphones. The headsets filter out background noises (active and passive noise cancelling) and the microphones enable interactive communication among and between OR subgroups through targeted information selection (signal selection). Any remaining background noise is overshadowed by music, which is quiesced by direct speech into the microphone (ducking). Information flow is programmed on a digital workstation, providing each team member a selection of acoustic signals from the OR on their bidirectional headset. A complex matrix of connections in this audio technology allows a predefined communication structure. These procedures were assembled in the Silent Operating Theatre Optimisation System (SOTOS). The technical specifications and user interface are described. A pilot study in 2015 using the SOTOS in cardiac surgery showed very positive feedback from the participating operating team members. Further studies focusing on communicational psychology perspective and physiological reaction are recommended.


File: Type PDF / Size: 4 MB/ Download


Patents

Patents Applied:

DE102015205463A1:

An apparatus for creating audio environments in an operating room is described. The device comprises a plurality of portable intercom units. The intercom units each have at least one microphone and one headphone, which are designed to suppress ambient noise. A mixer is in signal exchange with the plurality of intercom units and is designed for program-controlled signal transmission between the plurality of intercom units. Different control programs, each defining the program-controlled signal line, are stored in a memory. At least one of the control programs restricts the exchange of signals between the plurality of intercom units to form the audio environments. A controller determines one of the control programs and controls the mixer for the program-controlled signal line between the plurality of intercom units in accordance with the determined control program.

EP20213914.3: not published yet.




Any Questions?

Contact Us