The Clinical and Economic Case for Sterile, Disposable Instruments and Implants
Contamination incidents related to cannulated endoscopes has caused more scrutiny of re-sterilization and re-use of orthopedic instruments. This article reviews instrument re-use vs. a trend in foot/ankle surgery toward sterile/disposable sets. We conducted a survey of operating room nurses to consider their current practices and the economics/efficiencies of in-hospital sterilization and disposable orthopedic instruments. Of […]
Cost of Operating Room Time is $46.04 Dollars per Minute
ABSTRACT Objectives: The purpose of this study is to establish a consensus estimate of operating room cost per minute based on currently published literature. Design: Literature review. Main outcome measurement: Operating room cost per unit time. Results and conclusions: Google Scholar search produced 51 articles regarding ““operating room cost per minute” of which 14 had novel estimates for OR […]
Comparative Cost Analysis of Single-use Sterile versus Reprocessed Distal Radius Volar Plate Sets
Background: With the rise in distal radius fracture (DRF) incidence and treatment through open reduction internal fixation, there are increasing concerns in the current medical cost containment climate. To help reduce costs, manufacturers are introducing sterile packed kits. The purpose of this study is to compare the costs of the single use kit (SK) against […]
Minimizing Surgical Instrument Burden Increases Operating Room Efficiency and Reduces Perioperative Costs in Total Joint Arthroplasty
Abstract Background: Optimizing surgical trays to improve operating room efficiency and reduce costs in instrument processing is an under-appreciated strategy for cost containment. This study aimed to assess the economic impact of instrument tray optimization in total joint arthroplasty. Methods: Thirty-five randomly selected elective primary total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty performed by 4 fellowship-trained surgeons […]
The Cost of an OR Minute
The OR is often the largest revenue and cost generating department in the hospital and has a significant impact on a hospital’s financial success. Research reveals that a single minute (60 seconds) of OR time is valued at $62.00 on average. These calculations typically include the cost of basic procedure equipment (OR table, surgical set […]
Optimization of Orthopedic Surgical Instrument Trays: Lean Principles to Reduce Fixed Operating Room Expenses
Abstract Background: Optimization of surgical instrument trays improves efficiency and reduces cost. The purpose of this study is to assess the economic impact of optimizing orthopedic instrument trays at a tertiary medical center. Methods: Twenty-three independent orthopedic surgical instrument trays at a single academic hospital were reviewed from 2017 to 2018. Using Lean methodology, surgeons agreed upon […]