Case-Type Variation in Orthopedic Surgery Noise Levels
Abstract/Description/Artist Statement
Introduction
Noise levels in the orthopedic operating room (OR) commonly exceed occupational recommendations, yet their effects on OR team communication, performance, and distractibility are not well defined. This study’s primary aim was to compare intraoperative noise levels across orthopedic case types and evaluate relationships between noise exposure and staff-perceived performance.
Methods
This study utilized a prospective cross-sectional design. Orthopedic cases at a single institution were identified in Medical Health System Genesis and categorized as arthroplasty, arthroscopy, minor hand–local, bony work, or soft tissue work. Intraoperative noise was recorded using the NIOSH smartphone app, capturing time-weighted average (TWA), maximum decibel level (MDL), peak level (LCpeak), equivalent sound level (LAeq). After each case, the attending surgeon, primary resident, anesthesia provider, circulating nurse, and scrub nurse/technician completed Likert-scale surveys assessing communication, individual performance, and distractibility.
Results
Fifty-one cases and 255 survey responses were analyzed. LAeq differed by case type, with minor hand–local cases being quietest (56.9 dB) and arthroplasty being loudest (85.4 dB). Noise metrics correlated with case duration included maximum level (r=0.38) and LCpeak (r=0.32). Survey responses were strongly correlated with each other (r = 0.75–0.95). Music was perceived to positively influence OR atmosphere. ANOVA analysis showed significant differences between case types for duration, LAeq, maximum level, and LCpeak, but not for survey responses.
Conclusion
Orthopedic OR noise levels vary by case type and commonly exceed recommendations. However, noise levels did not have a significant impact on staff perceived communication, performance, or distractibility. Noise mitigation strategies remain encouraged.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Dr. Andrew Henebry
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Email
andrew.d.henebry.mil@health.mil
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Department
NMCP Department of Orthopedic Surgery
College/School Affiliation
Eastern Virginia School of Medicine
Student Level Group
Medical
Presentation Type
Poster
Case-Type Variation in Orthopedic Surgery Noise Levels
Introduction
Noise levels in the orthopedic operating room (OR) commonly exceed occupational recommendations, yet their effects on OR team communication, performance, and distractibility are not well defined. This study’s primary aim was to compare intraoperative noise levels across orthopedic case types and evaluate relationships between noise exposure and staff-perceived performance.
Methods
This study utilized a prospective cross-sectional design. Orthopedic cases at a single institution were identified in Medical Health System Genesis and categorized as arthroplasty, arthroscopy, minor hand–local, bony work, or soft tissue work. Intraoperative noise was recorded using the NIOSH smartphone app, capturing time-weighted average (TWA), maximum decibel level (MDL), peak level (LCpeak), equivalent sound level (LAeq). After each case, the attending surgeon, primary resident, anesthesia provider, circulating nurse, and scrub nurse/technician completed Likert-scale surveys assessing communication, individual performance, and distractibility.
Results
Fifty-one cases and 255 survey responses were analyzed. LAeq differed by case type, with minor hand–local cases being quietest (56.9 dB) and arthroplasty being loudest (85.4 dB). Noise metrics correlated with case duration included maximum level (r=0.38) and LCpeak (r=0.32). Survey responses were strongly correlated with each other (r = 0.75–0.95). Music was perceived to positively influence OR atmosphere. ANOVA analysis showed significant differences between case types for duration, LAeq, maximum level, and LCpeak, but not for survey responses.
Conclusion
Orthopedic OR noise levels vary by case type and commonly exceed recommendations. However, noise levels did not have a significant impact on staff perceived communication, performance, or distractibility. Noise mitigation strategies remain encouraged.