Supporting Sterile Services Departments with quality instruments

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The role of Sterile Service Departments (SSDs) is critical to the smooth running of operating theatres across the UK.

The timely decontamination and turnaround of full sets of instruments that are safe to use and perform to their optimum ability is critical to the smooth running of surgical lists.

But unfortunately, too many SSDs and instrument managers are being hampered by underinvestment in quality instruments, leading to a number of significant issues.

Damaged or missing instruments can cause a range of problems, not just for the sterile services department, but also for surgeons and patients:

  • Surgical procedures can be delayed or cancelled.
  • Hospital stays may be extended, aggravating bed-blocking situations.
  • Interoperative instrument breakage can put patients at risk.
  • Inability to effectively decontaminate instruments risks surgical site infections.

 

A sizeable problem for Sterile Service Departments

An audit carried out by the ABHI on 2020(1) showed that out of 32,000 instruments checked at 48 hospitals, less than 20% were in a good enough condition to be used.

In fact, 31% of the instruments needed to be replaced, 32% needed to be repaired, and 18% had issues with surface finish, including corrosion.

Another report, by Efthymiou and AR Cale(2) in 2022 revealed that surgical equipment failed in 92% of cardiac cases, 80% of which were surgical instruments. The report concluded that there may be as many as 1500 incidents a year of patient harm caused poor quality instruments.

 

Cheap reusable surgical instruments

There are many makes of resusable surgical instruments that are made from high quality stainless steel, are designed for optimum cleaning and come with warranties lasting decades. However, there is no doubt that the cost of investing in these upfront can be significant.

Budgetary pressures can mean that SSDs and instrument managers are forced to order much cheaper instruments. Unfortunately, these often come with only a one- or two-year warranty They are also made with lower quality stainless steel and have a more rudimentary design. This in turn means that decontamination is more difficult and damage more likely.

High quality instruments in contrast are often designed to optimise performance, decontamination and maintenance, even to the extent that their parts can be taken apart during servicing, allowing them to be restored to their original levels of functionality.

 

Carbon Footprint Considerations

Investing in good quality instruments also makes sense for the NHS’s plans to attain Net Zero. The NHS Carbon Footprint Plus considers an expanded scope of emissions, covering the products procured from its 80,000 suppliers. Sourcing cheap disposable or reusable instruments from thousands of miles away is not a sustainable approach for the long term.

Short-lived instruments also lead to more waste, not only in terms of instrument disposal, but also as a result of the increased number of manufacturing processes involved in making them.

Of course, having safe and complete instrument sets can be enhanced through consistent auditing, maintenance and training, but sterile services managers and instrument managers can only do so much with the instruments that they are given.

As the ABHI 2020 audit concluded, “Investment in the replacement of aged surgical instrument inventory should be considered as a priority for NHS spending” and “The procurement of surgical instruments should be based on overall quality and value, with the demonstration of strong ethical and resilient supply chains recognised and rewarded in purchasing decisions.”

In this way, we can support our Sterile Service Departments to help ensure that instrument performance and availability is always optimised.

References:

Should You Avoid Chrome-Plated Surgical Instruments?

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Chrome-plated surgical instruments have long been a popular choice for hospitals. They are durable and highly resistant to scratching, pealing, flaking, chipping, and corrosion. They’re also easy to clean and sterilise. Plus, smooth chrome-plated surfaces can reduce friction, meaning that instruments move exactly as expected during delicate medical procedures.

If you have heard that the EU is planning to ban chrome-plating on cars due to certain health concerns, then you may also be wondering if it is safe to use chrome on surgical instruments?

What Are the Health Risks of Chrome-Plating?

The chrome-plating process may involve Hexavalent chromium, which is a carcinogen. It may also use lead. If lead gets absorbed through the skin, it can lead to organ damage, and even brain damage. Some chrome plating-processes also use cyanide, which is highly toxic, and cadmium, which has been linked to cancers, as well as kidney and lung failure.

Environmental Impact of Chrome-Plating

The various heavy metals used in the chrome-plating process, as well as being harmful to human health, are also damaging to the environment. There may be a health risk to anyone who lives or works near a metal finishing facility. And if the facility does not treat its wastewater, it can lead to significant environmental concerns.

Should You Avoid Chrome-Plated Surgical Instruments?

There may be certain risks associated with using chrome-plated surgical instruments, as well as the environmental impact of the chrome-plating process. While there is no current or up-coming legislation looking to ban the use of chrome-plated surgical instruments, there are alternatives available.

Surgical Instruments – Chrome-Free Alternatives

If you want to avoid the potential health risks and the environmental impact associated with chrome-plated surgical instruments, the good news is that alternatives are available.

We stock the Stille range of surgical instruments. This range includes the Stille SuperCut XE scissors which  are made with an innovative chrome free coating process. Instead of chrome, they use a thin layer of diamond-like carbon. This makes them reliably durable and highly resistant to discolouration. The coating is also validated to withstand the more common hydro peroxide processes, such as Oxivario disinfection and Sterrad sterilization. What’s more, their dark surfaces reduce reflections to help minimise eye fatigue.

As well as offering dependable performance and unbeatable longevity, the chrome-free plating process also makes Stille instruments much more sustainable. Going chrome-free is a good way to reduce the carbon footprint of your surgical instruments, and this simple choice can also contribute to making your entire theatre more environmentally friendly.

Get Chrome-Free World Leading Stille Surgical Instruments From Cairn Technology

At Cairn Technology, we supply one of the most comprehensive ranges of Stille surgical instruments on the UK market. Our range covers all surgical disciplines, including cardiovascular, thoracic, orthopaedic, plastic surgery, and general surgery.

With their chrome-free plating process, Stille’s SuperCut XE scissors can contribute to a more sustainable theatre environment. On top of that, Stille’s precision surgical instruments come with a 30-year warranty, which is much longer than most other manufacturers.

This is one reason why many of our customers have switched to Stille instruments. As they’re so durable, and offer such a long warranty, these high-quality hand-crafted instruments will not have to be repaired and replaced as often as other instruments. They therefore provide hospitals with a more cost-effective investment over time.

Click here to learn more about our range of Stille surgical instruments, or  contact us to discuss your  our chrome free Stille instruments.

5 ways to reduce the carbon footprint of surgical instruments

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Minimising the carbon footprint of surgical instruments is just one of the many ways in which NHS Trusts can work towards their Net Zero plans.

Whilst quality reusable instruments can have a larger upfront cost than cheaper reusable instruments or disposable alternatives, they can make a much bigger contribution to hospital Trusts reducing their carbon footprint.

This is because less waste is generated as fewer instruments need to be manufactured and disposed of.

So what 5 things can help you identify reusable instruments that will help you reduce carbon equivalent emissions? 

  1. Longevity of instruments

At Cairn Technology, we want to supply the very best surgical instrument solutions for NHS Trusts looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Stille instruments allow us to do this as they are warrantied for 30 years (1).

In fact, there are many recorded instances of Stille instruments being used for longer. One inventory in a surgical centre in Sweden revealed that 26% of its surgical scissors had been in service for up to 50 years and 74% were over 50 years old.

Stille helps maintain the longevity of its products by providing its own expert and comprehensive maintenance service. This includes the complete dismantling of instruments to ensure that they are properly inspected, refurbished and cleaned.

  1. Instrument design

Good instrument design is essential if they are to be long-lasting for minimum impact on the environment.

Handcrafted through over 70 individual steps and made from the highest quality steel, Stille instruments draw on the company’s 175 years of engineering know-how to deliver instruments that will last for decades.

A considered commitment to design has seen them develop a number of innovative instruments. These include the first SuperCut scissors, which use one knife blade and one scissor blade for precise cutting to the very tip, and the first double-action bone rongeur.

By choosing instrument variants, such as the Stille SuperCut XE scissors, which come with a more durable and environmentally friendly Chrome-free coating, you can go even further in reducing the carbon footprint of surgical instruments in your operating theatres.

  1. Ease of maintenance and repair

Clever design of Stille instruments has also ensured that they can be cleaned, sterilised, inspected and maintained effectively.

For example, removable joint screws in instruments such as Stille scissors and rongeurs ensure that they can be disassembled for thorough cleaning and inspection. This design also allows for the correct resharpening of scissor blades to bring them back to their original condition, ensuring even longer service in the field.

Another example is the Kerrison Stille Laminectomy Punch. Here the absence of a spring between the handles improves the accessibility for cleaning and reduces the risk of surgical gloves getting caught.

  1. Durability

You can ensure even greater longevity by choosing reusable Stille instruments that consist of metals that even outperform stainless steel.

For example, instruments with Tungsten Carbide in the blades or tips are stronger than stainless steel and can last up to five times longer.

Instruments with ceramic coating provide four to five times higher surface hardness than stainless steel, as well as offering greater resistance to rust and corrosion.

Whilst Titanium is fracture-proof, non-rusting and is entirely resistant to chemicals.

  1. Reliability

Failure of a surgical instrument immediately before or during surgery can not only risk patient health, but it can also lead to procedures being halted and postponed.

From an environmental point of view this is bad, as it then means that a lot of single-use consumables, such as absorbent floor mats and surgical gloves, will need to be disposed of, with more being required for the procedure when it finally takes place.

So investing in reliable surgical instruments can also impact on carbon emission reduction for a wider range of theatre consumables as well.

Want to improve your carbon footprint with Stille instruments?

If you are interested in investing in Stille instruments, please click here to contact us. You can also browse the Stille range here: https://cairntechnology.com/surgical-instruments/

 

(1) 30 year warranty applies so long as they are used, cared for and serviced properly by Stille’s own service team.

Surgical Instrument Care: Ensuring Precision and Longevity

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Surgical instruments are indispensable tools in the realm of healthcare, playing a critical role in medical procedures that demand precision and accuracy.

To maintain their functionality and extend their lifespan, proper care and maintenance are essential. Surgeons and healthcare professionals must adhere to rigorous protocols for cleaning, sterilizing, and storing surgical instruments.

This article delves into the importance of surgical instrument care and outlines best practices to ensure their optimal performance.

1. Cleaning: The First Line of Defence

Proper cleaning is the foundation of surgical instrument care. Immediately after use, instruments should be thoroughly cleaned to remove blood, tissue, and other contaminants. Manual cleaning with a mild detergent or enzymatic cleaner is often the initial step. It is crucial to follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning agents and techniques to prevent corrosion and damage.

Ultrasonic cleaners are commonly used in healthcare settings, employing high-frequency sound waves to dislodge debris from hard-to-reach areas. Automated washer-disinfectors are also valuable for large-scale cleaning, providing a standardized and efficient process.

2. Inspection and Quality Control

After cleaning, a meticulous inspection is imperative. Every instrument should be examined for signs of damage, wear, or malfunction. Hinges, joints, and cutting edges should be scrutinized to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Any instrument showing signs of wear or damage should be promptly removed from circulation and either repaired or replaced.

Routine quality control measures, such as regular inspections and testing, help identify issues early on, preventing potential complications during surgery. Establishing a comprehensive quality management system contributes to the overall safety and efficiency of surgical procedures.

3. Sterilization: Eliminating Pathogens

Sterilization is a critical step to eliminate pathogens and ensure aseptic conditions in the operating room. There are various sterilization methods available, including steam autoclaving, ethylene oxide gas, and hydrogen peroxide plasma. Each method has its advantages and limitations, and healthcare facilities must select the most appropriate method based on the types of instruments and materials used.

Validation processes and routine monitoring of sterilization equipment are essential to guarantee the effectiveness of the sterilization process. Stringent adherence to sterilization protocols is crucial for preventing surgical site infections and other complications.

4. Proper Storage: Preserving Instrument Integrity

Once cleaned and sterilized, surgical instruments must be stored properly to maintain their integrity. Sterile packaging, such as peel pouches or wrapped trays, helps prevent contamination during storage. Instruments should be stored in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment, away from direct sunlight and harsh chemicals.

Implementing an organized system for instrument storage ensures quick and easy access, reducing the risk of damage during retrieval. Regular checks of storage areas for cleanliness and organization are vital components of a comprehensive surgical instrument care program.

5. Education and Training: Empowering Healthcare Professionals

Education and training are integral components of effective surgical instrument care. Healthcare professionals, including surgeons, nurses, and SSD technicians, should receive comprehensive training on proper handling, cleaning, and maintenance procedures. Ongoing education programs help keep staff updated on the latest advancements in instrument care and reinforce the importance of adherence to established protocols.

6. Choosing high-quality instruments

Finally, hospitals can help sterile services department staff to clean and maintain surgical instruments more effectively by investing in high-quality reusable surgical instruments. Not only will these be manufactured to minimise the risk of corrosion, they are also often designed to be taken apart for effective cleaning and servicing. Take a look at our range of Stille instruments here if you are looking for surgical instruments that meet these requirements: https://cairntechnology.com/surgical-instruments/

 

 

 

DAS 2024 – Decontamination and Sterilisation Conference

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Is DAS 2024 already in your calendar? If you are a decontamination manager or lead, or part of the sterile services team then this is an event not to be missed.

Taking place on 6th February at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham, this transformative conference aims to shape the future of decontamination and sterilisation.

DAS 2024 Speakers and Workshops

Hosting a range of speakers including Trevor Garcia, Chairman of the Institute of Decontamination Sciences, and Sharon Fox, Head of Decontamination at University Hospital Birmingham NHS, talks will cover a range of topics from developing an effective staff competency framework to best practise for patient safety.

There will also be 15 workshops throughout the day, exploring topics including:

  • the role of the decontamination lead,
  • innovations in ultrasound decontamination,
  • advanced endoscope decontamination, and
  • the role of surface disinfection.

Other benefits for Decontamination Professionals

As a delegate, you can access a host of other benefits:

  • earn 7+ hours of CPD Accredited Points for your Annual Assessments,
  • interact with leaders in decontamination and sterilisation,
  • connect with professionals and stakeholders in the field, and
  • shape practices in decontamination and sterilisation.

Interested in best practice and products?

Come and see us on stand B12 to find out why decontamination and CSSU managers across the UK specify our products and services.

  • Stille Surgical Instruments

Come and handle our range of Stille surgical instruments, which are warrantied for 30 years.

You’ll be able to see how these instruments have been carefully designed to optimise longevity through ease of cleaning and maintenance. That’s why they offer exceptional precision, strength and durability despite decades of use.

Covering a wide range of specialisms from general and orthopaedic surgery to cardiothoracic, plastic surgery and more, they can be the stalwarts of your instrument sets for years to come.

To find out more about our Stille surgical instruments click here.

  • COSHH Monitoring for Endoscopy

Our workplace exposure monitoring helps endoscopy departments to achieve and maintain their annual JAG accreditation.

This provides important evidence that an NHS or independent UK endoscopy service is competent to deliver against the criteria set out in the JAG standards and fulfil IHEEM annual AE(D) audit part 9.6.

Our monitoring of endoscope decontamination rooms is carried out to assess staff exposure to peracetic and acetic acid.

It enables our customers to demonstrate that their control measures are keeping any exposure within required limits, as stated in regulation 10 of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health 2002 Regulations (COSHH).

To find out about our monitoring service for endoscope decontamination rooms click here.

Want to attend the Decontamination and Sterilisation Conference 2024?

To find out more about the DAS 2024 speakers, agenda and how to register just click here now.

We look forward to seeing you at the conference!

 

Plastic Surgery events in the UK in 2023

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If you are involved in plastic or reconstructive surgery, then this Autumn/Winter offers several excellent opportunities to learn and network with fellow consultant plastic surgeons.

From facial surgery and body contouring to oral surgery, hand surgery and much more, you are sure to find some benefit from attending the following events:

 

BAAPS Congress 2023 – 28th to 29th September

Taking place on 28th and 29th September in London, The British Association of Aesthetic Surgeons’ 2023 Congress will focus on Body Contouring & Facial Surgery.

BAAPS is a charity that aims to advance innovation, excellence, education and safety in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. You can find out more about the Congress by clicking here: https://baaps.org.uk/about/events/1636/baaps_2023

 

BSFPS – British Society of Facial Plastic Surgery Annual Conference 2023 – 12th to 13th October

Organised by the BSFPS, which was created to support training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery for NHS and private sector surgeons, the Annual Conference will comprise of Juniors Day on the Thursday and the Annual Meeting on the Friday.

The main programme will cover all aspects of facial surgery, including optimising wound healing and scars, rhinoplasty, and Mohs surgery.

For more information about the BSFPS Annual Meeting or to register to attend just click here.

 

BAPRAS Congress 2023 – 29th November – 1st December

Taking place in Gateshead, this year’s BAPRAS Congress is subtitled ‘Interface’ to reflect the extensive working relationships that plastic surgery has with other surgical specialties.

In line with this, a number of different Associations and Societies are included on this year’s guest programme, including the British Orthopaedic Association, British Society for Surgery of the Hand, British Orthopaedic Oncology Society, British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and many more.

There will be several social events, including a networking evening for potential fellows, and the Association Dinner. Find out more here: http://www.bapras.org.uk/professionals/training-and-education/bapras-events/bapras-congress-2023

 

More Diary Dates for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Events

Don’t forget to follow us on our social media channels, where we will be regularly posting about upcoming plastic surgery events in the UK. Plus, if you have an event that you would like us to mention, just email info@cairntechnology.com and we will be happy to share the news!

You can also browse our exceptional range of Stille handcrafted surgical instruments for plastic surgery here.

 

Healthcare Estates Conference 2023 – Come see us there!

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The Healthcare Estates Conference 2023 is being held at Manchester Central this year from 10th to 11th November. And it’s promising to be a great event for estates and facilities managers in the healthcare sector.

We’ll be exhibiting on stand A57, so if you are one of our many existing customers for workplace exposure monitoring, personal sampling or chemical spill management do drop by to say hello.

If our name is completely new to you, we would also love to see you and talk to you about how we can help you.

Healthcare Estates Conference 2023 – What’s New
We are bringing a couple of new products with us to Healthcare Estates 2023 that are designed to help both staff and patients stay safe in the hospital environment.

Our Blueair Health Protect range of air purifiers are ideal for places where staff and patients congregate including waiting areas, meeting rooms, wards and restaurants.

Our Blueair air purifiers remove and kill 99% of viruses and bacteria captured in the filter. They also comprise HEPASilent technology which catches 99.97% of particles down to 0.1 microns such as viruses and bacteria. Just click here to see our full range: https://cairntechnology.com/air-purification/

Also in the spotlight at the Healthcare Estates Exhibition, will be our new Sundstrom Air Fed Hood kits. These are ideal for staff that cannot use standard respirators from our chemical spill kits. This may be due to not yet having had a proper face-fit test, or because they have facial hair which prevents effective face-fitting.

Click here for more information: https://cairntechnology.com/product/sundstrom-starter-kit/

What we can also help you with @HCEstates?

We can also talk you though our range of COSHH workplace exposure monitoring services and personal sampling for theatre, endoscopy and maternity departments. Or help you to find the right chemical spill kit and training for your needs.

Learning and Networking at the Healthcare Estates conference

Of course, we are sure that two of the main reasons that you will be attending the event are to tap into knowledge transfer and networking opportunities.

To find out more about these just visit https://www.healthcare-estates.com/ or click here to register to attend https://www.healthcare-estates.com/registration-2023/

We look forward to seeing you there!

 

Surgical Sutures and Stitch Types: A Guide

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Surgical sutures and stitches are used to close wounds to the skin and other tissues.

This is an essential introduction to the different types of surgical sutures and stitches. We’ll briefly discuss what each type is used for and explore the sort of specialist surgical instruments doctors use to apply sutures.

What’s the Difference Between Sutures and Stitches?

The terms “sutures” and “stitches” are often used interchangeably. The key difference is that a suture is a medical device surgeons use to repair a wound and stitching is a technique surgeons use to repair wounds with sutures.

Even the most experienced surgeon might sometimes refer to “sutures” as “stitches”, and vice-versa. Most people will understand what you mean if you use either term. But it’s important to understand the difference, nonetheless.

The Different Types of Sutures

There are three key ways to classify sutures:

  • Absorbable or nonabsorbable. Absorbable sutures will be naturally digested by the enzymes in your body, over time. Nonabsorbable sutures will either be left in permanently, or else they’ll be removed by a doctor at a later date.
  • Some sutures are monofilament, meaning they consist of a single thread, for quicker and easier stitching. Other sutures are braided, making for a more secure stitching.
  • Sutures will either be made from a natural or a synthetic material.

Suture Grades

To help surgeons select the appropriate type of suture for each application, sutures are graded by the diameter of the strand. The suture grading system involved an O followed by a number. This number indicates the diameter of the suture. The higher the number, the lower the diameter.

Types of Suture

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. We just want to provide a few examples of the different types of sutures, along with their applications.

  • A natural, absorbable, monofilament suture, largely used to close internal soft tissue wounds.
  • Polydioxanone (PDS). A synthetic, absorbable, monofilament suture that’s suitable for paediatric cardiac procedures, as well as in many types of soft tissue surgery.
  • Polyglactin (Vicryl). A synthetic, absorbable, braided suture that’s durable enough for use in repairing external lacerations, such as on the hand and face. Though as certain braided sutures can make wounds more vulnerable to infection, sutures of this type should not be used in cardiovascular procedures.
  • Nylon and silk. Nylon sutures are monofilament, whereas silk sutures are braided. Both types are nonabsorbable, and suitable for general use for most types of soft tissue repair.

Types of Suture Techniques

As well as selecting from different types of sutures, surgeons can also choose from a variety of suture techniques depending on the procedure.

Here are some examples of the types of suture techniques. But once again, please note that this is not an exhaustive list:

  • Continuous sutures. In which surgeons will make a series of stitches with a single strand of suture. A skilled surgeon can apply continuous sutures quickly, and as the tension’s distributed evenly across the wound, the stitch tends to be quite strong.
  • Interrupted sutures. Rather than making a series of stitches with a single suture, surgeons may instead make a stitch, cut and tie it off, and then make another – repeating the process until the wound’s closed. This technique takes longer, but the stitch can be more secure, as even if one suture breaks, the rest will stay in place.
  • Purse-string sutures. A type of continuous suture which involves stitching a suture around an area, before tightening it like you would the strings on a purse. One possible application of this type of suture is to secure a stapling device to the intestines.
  • Buried sutures. With this type of suture, surgeons tie the knot within the area they’re closing off. It’s a method for making secure stitches deep within the body, and typically, the sutures are not intended to be removed.

Types of Suture Needles

To apply a suture to a wound, surgeons will first attach the suture to a needle. There are a few different types of suture needles:

  • For easy manoeuvrability in small spaces. The curved shape of the needle allows the surgeon to stitch a wound by simply turning their wrist.
  • For making very precise and neat stitches. These are good for fixing external lacerations, but they’re unsuitable for deeper wounds, as surgeons need a lot of space to use them.
  • For when surgeons need to puncture tissue so they can pass through it. Most suture needles have sharp tips for this very purpose.
  • The rounded tip means that blunt suture needles can still separate tissue, but there’s less risk that they’ll inadvertently prick organs and other bits of tissue.

Surgeons will also use forceps and other types of surgical equipment to give them a tight grip and reliable control of their suture needles as they stitch wounds. Read our full guide to the different types of surgical forceps.

Taking Care of Your Surgical Instruments

Effectively sterilising and cleaning surgical instruments is an essential part of infection prevention and control in medical settings, particularly when the procedure involves working so close to soft tissues and open wounds. Taking care of your surgical instruments will also prolong their lifespan, keeping them as reliable as possible for as long as possible.

We have a few guides that will help you take better care of your surgical instruments:

At Cairn Technology, we have one of the most comprehensive offerings of high-quality surgical instruments on the UK market. Take a look at our range of surgical instruments.

For a free quote, or to discuss your surgical needs with one of our friendly experts, get in touch today.

Operating Theatre Must-Have Equipment Checklist

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Three things are vital to delivering an efficient operating theatre:

In this post, we’ll discuss the must-have equipment for any operating theatre.

Why Does Equipment Make a Difference in Operating Theatres?

Obviously, all operating theatre procedures depend upon specialist surgical equipment. You need surgical equipment you can depend on. But it’s just as important to carefully consider the rest of the equipment you use in the operating theatre.

Between each procedure, you’ll have to clean, decontaminate, or sterilise the operating theatre environment, your surgical instruments, and your medical equipment.

Any equipment you use will either be reusable or disposable. With single-use equipment, so long as it’s adequately stored and handled, you can use it during the procedure safe in the knowledge that it’s clean and sterile, and simply dispose of it in the appropriate waste channel following the procedure. But with reusable equipment, you’ll have to take appropriate steps to ensure everything’s adequately processed before and after each procedure.

In this way, the specific equipment you choose for your operating theatre can make a huge difference to your patient outcomes, and to your turnaround time.

Your choice of equipment can also influence your operational efficiency (through reducing clutter while providing ease of access, for example), and the comfort and safety of your theatre team.

Operating Theatre Must-Have Equipment Checklist

Surgical Lights

For illuminating the surgical site while eliminating shadows. Surgical lights can either be LED or halogen. Of the two, LED is more energy efficient. It also provides a brighter, whiter light, and it generates less heat, which can make things more comfortable for surgical teams.

Operating Table

The table upon which the patient lies for the duration of the procedure. Operating tables are often adjustable and with moving parts, to help the surgical team position the patient as necessary for the procedure.

Equipment Management Systems

These provide storage and ease of access for all the necessary surgical equipment, alongside housing for wires and cables.

This can improve operational efficiency through allowing the surgical team to easily access the equipment they need as soon as they need it. These systems can also reduce clutter, helping to remove tripping and slipping hazards.

Operating theatres may also contain warming cabinets, which can be used to keep fluids, linens, and blankets warm, to help reduce the risk of hypothermia during certain procedures.

Surgical Displays

Display systems can either provide up-to-date information about the patient’s status, or they can provide an intricate, magnified view of the patient’s inner anatomy during certain invasive procedures.

Surgical displays may be wall-mounted, or they may be attached to arms or columns.

Surgical Instruments

A surgeon’s tools of the trade. Surgical instruments are used exclusively in sterile spaces, and they’re specifically designed to penetrate a patient’s skin or mucous membrane. Different procedures will require different instruments.

We specialise in supplying high quality instruments for use across a broad range of surgical disciplines. If you’d like to discuss your surgical instrument requirements, get in touch to talk to an expert today.

Scrub Sinks

Operating theatre teams use scrub sinks to wash their hands and forearms before performing surgical procedures. Good hand hygiene is an essential part of effective infection prevention and control in operating theatres.

This is one area where the specific choice of equipment can make a huge difference to your theatre’s operational efficiency. An absorbent floor mat in the theatre or scrub room can help reduce slippery floors and can also reduce turnaround times between procedures.

The most superabsorbent mat, the T-Mat, can absorb up to 8.5 litres of liquid during a procedure, and afterwards your team can quickly and easily dispose of it in the clinical waste. This will dramatically cut down on your cleaning time, with no need for any noisy, time-consuming suction devices and tubing.

We Can Help You Deliver Exceptional Care Quality Standards in the Operating Theatre

Cairn Technology are approved suppliers to both NHS and private healthcare providers. We specialise in helping operating theatre teams improve efficiency and care quality standards.

As well as stocking a range of surgical instruments and specialist infection control products, we can provide expert advice on improving operational effectiveness in the theatre. Get in touch to discuss our products and services with  one of our friendly experts today.

Future Surgery Show, November 2023 – What To Expect

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The 2023 Future Surgery Show takes place 14 – 15 November 2023 at ExCeL, London. Expect two dedicated days of CPD accredited professional development, along with dozens of exhibitors demonstrating the latest in surgical innovations.

Cairn Technology will once again be exhibiting at Future Surgery. Visit us on Stand N80 to view our diverse range of advanced products and services for the medical sector.

Future Surgery Show 2023 – What to Expect

The event aims to bring together the whole perioperative team to explore future developments in surgery.

In particular, it will explore how innovation and new technology will change patient care and shape the future workforce. It will also provide insights into the latest and upcoming techniques.

You can view the full Future Surgery Conference Programme here.

The Theme for 2023’s Future Surgery Show

The 2023 event is focused on “Entering a New Era of Surgical Innovation”. Topics for this year may include disruptive technology, connectivity, human factors, training, and research to support change and improve care and safety standards.

Future Surgery 2023 Exhibitors

In addition to the packed conference programme, more than 100 suppliers will be exhibiting at Future Surgery 2023.

You can view the full list of 2023 exhibitors here

Cairn Technology will be exhibiting on Stand N80.

Cairn Technology at Future Surgery 2023

Here’s a quick overview of what we’ll be showcasing at Future Surgery 2023:

  • Stille Surgical Instruments – We’re the UK distributor of Stille surgical instruments, supplying specialist equipment for a wide range of surgical disciplines including cardiac, orthopaedic, and reconstructive surgery.
  • Workplace Air Quality Monitoring – We can help you ensure you comply with vital inspection maintenance requirements, including COSHH and (HTM) 03-01. Our workplace monitoring solutions are specially tailored to operating theatres, anaesthetic rooms, endoscopic departments, and more.
  • Fluid Management Products – Among other cutting-edge fluid management products, we stock the market-leading T-mat, a superabsorbent non-drip floor mat for operating theatres that can soak up and lock-in up to 8.5 litres of water or 3.5 litres of saline. This can promote a cleaner surgical environment, reducing the risk of cross-infections along with slips, trips, and falls.
  • Air Purification Solutions – We’ve partnered with air purification specialist Blueair to supply their specialist range of hospital-grade HealthProtect range of air purifiers. These can completely filter the air in a large room in as little as 12.5 minutes, removing up to 99.97% of particles down to 0.1 microns while killing up to 99% of viruses and bacteria.

Come And Talk to Us at Future Surgery 2023

To find out how our range of products can help you deliver surgical excellence in your healthcare setting, visit us on stand N80 at Future Surgery 2023.

But if you can’t wait until then, or if you have any questions before the event, get in touch. Our team of friendly experts will be happy to discuss your requirements and offer any help and support you need.

Call us on 0333 015 4345 or email info@cairntechnology.com.