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Dilger AE, Meiklejohn DA, Bent JP, Tummala N, Bergmark RW, Lalakea ML. Climate change and environmental sustainability in otolaryngology: A state-of-the-art review. Surgeon 2024; 22:270-275. [PMID: 38972805 DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2024.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the greatest existing threat to human health. Given the direct exposure of the upper aerodigestive system to pollutants, patients in otolaryngology are at high risk for increased disease burden in the setting of climate change and worsening air quality. Given this and the environmental impact of surgical care, it is essential for surgeons to understand their role in addressing climate health through quality-driven clinical initiatives, education, advocacy, and research. METHODS A state-of-the-art review was performed of the existing literature on the otolaryngologic health impacts of climate change and environmental sustainability efforts in surgery with specific attention to studies in otolaryngology - head and neck surgery. FINDINGS Climate variables including heat and air pollution are associated with increased incidence of allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis and head and neck cancer. A number of studies have shown that sustainability initiatives in otolaryngology are safe and provide direct cost benefit. CONCLUSION Surgeons have the opportunity to lead on climate health and sustainability to address the public health burden of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E Dilger
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Duncan A Meiklejohn
- Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of New Mexico Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - John P Bent
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Neelima Tummala
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Regan W Bergmark
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Lauren Lalakea
- Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, San Jose, CA, USA; Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Hafiani EM, Ortu S, Lopez D, Lallemant F, Dumaine V, Cassier P, Slim K, Pessaux P. Professional practice guidelines: Optimization of energy efficiency in controlled environment zones in operating theaters and interventional sectors. J Visc Surg 2024:S1878-7886(24)00118-8. [PMID: 39341773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2024.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To issue recommendations for reduced energy consumption in controlled environment zones (CEZ) in operating theaters and interventional sectors. DESIGN A committee bringing together seven experts from the SFAR, AFC, SF2H, ASPEC and SOFCOT was convened by CERES. A conflict-of-interest statement was developed at the beginning of the process and enforced throughout the elaboration of the reference document. The experts received no financing from any company commercializing a healthcare product (medicine or medical device). The committee was called upon to follow and respect the GRADE® (grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation) method to evaluate quality of the factual data on which the recommendations were based. METHODS We analyzed the relevant literature and formulated the recommendations in accordance with the GRADE® methodology by identifying three different fields. Each question was formulated in accordance with the PICO (patients, intervention, comparison, outcome) format. RESULTS The experts' attempts at synthesis and application of the GRADE® method led to 16 recommendations. In cases where GRADE® method could not be applied, the recommendations were formulated as expert advice. CONCLUSION Once strong agreement among the experts had been reached, we formulated 15 recommendations for decreased energy consumption and reduced environmental impact in the controlled environment zones of operating theaters and interventional sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- El-Mahdi Hafiani
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Tenon University Hospital, DMU DREAM, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | | | - Denis Lopez
- Aspec, 64, rue nationale, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Florence Lallemant
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France; CHU Lille, Pôle des Urgences, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Valérie Dumaine
- Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, Cochin Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Cassier
- Institute of Infectious Agents, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France; CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université de Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Karem Slim
- Department of Digestive Surgery, CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Patrick Pessaux
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Digestive, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Inserm U1110, Strasbourg, France
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Grunert M, Hunt MF, Decker M. The environmental impacts of anesthesia. Curr Opin Urol 2024; 34:358-365. [PMID: 38898779 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The healthcare sector has a substantial environmental footprint, and the delivery of anesthesia contributes significantly. Inhaled anesthetics themselves are potent greenhouse gases, unused intravenous medication exert toxic effects on the environment, and the increasing reliance on single-use devices has led to an ever-growing amount of solid waste produced in operating rooms. This review discusses many of these environmental impacts and suggests practices to mitigate the environmental footprint of anesthetic practice. RECENT FINDINGS The choice of anesthesia maintenance has significant environmental implications, with nitrous oxide and desflurane having the highest carbon footprint of all anesthetic agents. Using low fresh gas flows and supplementing or replacing inhalational agents with propofol leads to a significant reduction in emissions. Many intravenous anesthetic agents pose a risk of environmental toxicity, and efforts should be made to decrease medication waste and ensure appropriate disposal of unused medications to minimize their environmental impacts. Additionally, consideration should be given to replacing single-use devices in the operating rooms with reusable alternatives that are often both environmentally and economically superior. And solid waste generated in the operating room should be segregated thoughtfully, as processing regulated medical waste is a highly energy-intensive process. SUMMARY Significant opportunities exist to improve the environmental footprint of anesthesia practice, and with the rapidly worsening climate crisis, the importance of implementing changes is greater than ever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Grunert
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Pisaniello D, Nitschke M. Relative Health Risk Reduction from an Advanced Multi-Modal Air Purification System: Evaluation in a Post-Surgical Healthcare Setting. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1089. [PMID: 39200698 PMCID: PMC11354897 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21081089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024]
Abstract
Advanced air treatment systems have the potential to reduce airborne infection risk, improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and reduce energy consumption, but few studies reported practical implementation and performance. PlasmaShield®, an advanced multi-modal HVAC-integrated system, was directly compared with a standard MERV-13 system in a post-surgical paediatric healthcare setting. The evaluation entailed monitoring of multi-size airborne particles, bioaerosols and key IAQ parameters. Measurements were taken for outside air, supply air and air in the occupied space for 3 days prior to, and after, the installation of the PlasmaShield system. Compared with the existing arrangement, very significant reductions in particle number concentrations were observed in the occupied space, especially with virus-like submicron particles. Significant reductions in airborne culturable bacteria and fungi were observed in the supply air, with more modest reductions in the occupied space. In the case of virus-like particles, there was an eight-fold improvement in equivalent clean air, suggesting a five-fold infection risk reduction for long-range exposure. The data suggest multiple benefits of airborne particle and bioaerosol reduction, with applications beyond healthcare. Long-term studies are recommended to confirm the combined IAQ, health and energy benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino Pisaniello
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
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Trieu E, Ramirez-Caban LC, Shockley ME. Review of sustainable practices for the gynecology operating room. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:324-329. [PMID: 38837721 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Climate change has immediate impacts on women's health. Hospitals and operating rooms are large contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and waste. This article will review current green initiatives designed to minimize environmental impact in the operating room and highlight areas for future improvement. RECENT FINDINGS From a materials perspective, reusable goods result in less GHG emissions while being just as efficacious, well tolerated, and easy to use. Materials should be opened judiciously, only as necessary. Processing regulated medical waste produces greater GHG emissions, so waste should be properly sorted, and items which are not biohazard waste should be processed separately. Choosing appropriate anesthesia and utilizing an 'off' setting, in which operating rooms are shut down when not in use, can also drastically decrease the environmental impact of surgery. Further research is needed to determine effective implementation in hospitals. SUMMARY This article summarizes current attempts to make operating rooms more sustainable. Many practices result in a decreased carbon footprint and cost savings without adversely affecting patient outcomes. Gynecologic surgeons and the hospitals in which they practice need to focus on implementing these changes in a timely fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elissa Trieu
- Division of Gynecologic Specialties, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Lawaczeck L, Rudolph J, Norz V, Tsaur I, Rausch S. The role of planetary health in urologic oncology. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2024; 24:513-523. [PMID: 38709157 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2024.2350631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Climate change and global warming are an omnipresent topic in our daily lives. Planetary health and oncology represent two critical domains within the broader spectrum of healthcare, each addressing distinct yet interconnected aspects of human well-being. We are encouraged to do our part in saving our planet. This should include the decisions we make in our professional life, especially in uro-oncology, as the healthcare sector significantly contributes to environmental pollution. AREAS COVERED There are many aspects that can be addressed in the healthcare sector in general, as there are structural problems in terms of energy consumption, water waste, therapeutic techniques, transportation and drug manufacturing, as well as in uro-oncology specific areas. For example, the use of different surgical techniques, forms of anesthesia and the use of disposable or reusable instruments, each has a different impact on our environment. The literature search was carried out using PubMed, a medical database. EXPERT OPINION We are used to making decisions based on the best outcome for patients without considering the impact that each decision can have on the environment. In the present article, we outline options and choices for a more climate-friendly approach in urologic oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lawaczeck
- Department of Urology, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia Rudolph
- Department of Urology, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Valentina Norz
- Department of Urology, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Igor Tsaur
- Department of Urology, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Steffen Rausch
- Department of Urology, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany
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7
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Friedericy HJ, Friedericy AF, de Weger A, van Dorp ELA, Traversari RAAL, van der Eijk AC, Jansen FW. Effect of unidirectional airflow ventilation on surgical site infection in cardiac surgery: environmental impact as a factor in the choice for turbulent mixed air flow. J Hosp Infect 2024; 148:51-57. [PMID: 38537748 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2024.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical site infection (SSI) in the form of postoperative deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) after cardiac surgery is a rare, but potentially fatal, complication. In addressing this, the focus is on preventive measures, as most risk factors for SSI are not controllable. Therefore, operating rooms are equipped with heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to prevent airborne contamination of the wound, either through turbulent mixed air flow (TMA) or unidirectional air flow (UDAF). AIM To investigate if the risk for SSI after cardiac surgery was decreased after changing from TMA to UDAF. METHODS This observational retrospective single-centre cohort study collected data from 1288 patients who underwent open heart surgery over 2 years. During the two study periods, institutional SSI preventive measures remained the same, with the exception of the type of HVAC system that was used. FINDINGS Using multi-variable logistic regression analysis that considered confounding factors (diabetes, obesity, duration of surgery, and re-operation), the hypothesis that TMA is an independent risk factor for SSI was rejected (odds ratio 0.9, 95% confidence interval 0.4-1.8; P>0.05). It was not possible to demonstrate the preventive effect of UDAF on the incidence of SSI in patients undergoing open heart surgery when compared with TMA. CONCLUSION Based on these results, the use of UDAF in open heart surgery should be weighed against its low cost-effectiveness and negative environmental impact due to high electricity consumption. Reducing energy overuse by utilizing TMA for cardiac surgery can diminish the carbon footprint of operating rooms, and their contribution to climate-related health hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Friedericy
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - A F Friedericy
- Department of Health Sciences, Free University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A de Weger
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E L A van Dorp
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - A C van der Eijk
- Operating Room Department and Central Sterile Supply Department, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - F W Jansen
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands; Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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8
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Roscioli R, Wyllie T, Neophytou K, Dent L, Lowen D, Tan D, Dunne B, Hodgson R. How we can reduce the environmental impact of our operating theatres: a narrative review. ANZ J Surg 2024; 94:1000-1010. [PMID: 37985608 DOI: 10.1111/ans.18770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is projected to become the leading cause of adverse health outcomes globally, and the healthcare system is a key contributor. Surgical theatres are three to six times more pollutant than other hospital areas, and produce anywhere from a fifth to a third of total hospital waste. Hospitals are increasingly expected to make operating theatres more sustainable, however guidelines to improve environmental sustainability are lacking, and previous research takes a narrow approach to operative sustainability. This paper presents a narrative review that, following a 'review of reviews' approach, aims to summarize the key recommendations to improve the environmental sustainability of surgical theatres. Key domains of discussion identified across the literature included minimisation of volatile anaesthetics, reduction of operating theatre power consumption, optimisation of surgical approach, re-use and re-processing of surgical instruments, waste management, and research, education and leadership. Implementation of individual items in these domains has seen significant reductions in the environmental impact of operative practice. This comprehensive summary of recommendations lays the framework from which providers can assess the sustainability of their practice and for the development of encompassing guidelines to build an environmentally sustainable surgical service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Roscioli
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracey Wyllie
- Division of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Lana Dent
- Division of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Darren Lowen
- Department of Anaesthesia & Perioperative Medicine, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Tan
- Department of Anaesthesia & Perioperative Medicine, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Dunne
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Peter Macallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Russell Hodgson
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Epping, Victoria, Australia
- Division of Surgery, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
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Van Der Zee S, Verhoog T, Post T, Garcia-Gomez P, van Raaij EM, Diehl JC, Hunfeld N. Nudging intensive care unit personnel towards sustainable behaviour. Nurs Crit Care 2024. [PMID: 38710648 DOI: 10.1111/nicc.13086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health care sector is among the most carbon-intensive sectors, contributing to societal problems like climate change. Previous research demonstrated that especially the use of personal protective equipment (e.g., aprons) in critical care contributes to this problem. To reduce personal protective equipment waste, new sustainable policies are needed. AIMS Policies are only effective if people comply. Our aim is to examine whether compliance with sustainable policies in critical care can be increased through behavioural influencing. Specifically, we examined the effectiveness of two sets of nudges (i.e., a Prime + Visual prompt nudge and a Social norm nudge) on decreasing apron usage in an intensive care unit (ICU). STUDY DESIGN We conducted a field experiment with a pre- and post-intervention measurement. Upon the introduction of the new sustainable policy, apron usage data were collected for 9 days before (132 observations) and 9 days after (114 observations) the nudge interventions were implemented. RESULTS Neither the Prime + Visual prompt nudge, nor the Social norm nudge decreased apron usage. CONCLUSIONS While previous studies have found that primes, visual nudges and social norm nudges can increase sustainable behaviour, we did not find evidence for this in our ICU field experiment. Future research is needed to determine whether this null finding reflects reality, or whether it was due to methodological decisions and limitations of the presented experiment. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The presented study highlights the importance of studying behavioural interventions that were previously proven successful in the lab and in other field contexts, in the complex setting of critical care. Results previously found in other contexts may not generalize directly to a critical care context. The unique characteristics of the critical care context also pose methodological challenges that may have affected the outcomes of this experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Van Der Zee
- Erasmus School of Law, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tamarah Verhoog
- Erasmus School of Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Theo Post
- Erasmus School of Law, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pilar Garcia-Gomez
- Erasmus School of Economics, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erik M van Raaij
- Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Carel Diehl
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole Hunfeld
- Department of Intensive Care and Pharmacy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Slim K, Martin F. Surgery, innovation, research and sustainable development. J Visc Surg 2024; 161:63-68. [PMID: 38071141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In the healthcare sector, surgery (especially in the operating theatre) is responsible for emission of greenhouse gases, which is a source of global warming. The goal of this largely quantitative assessment is to address three questions on carbon footprint associated with surgery, the role of primary and secondary prevention prior to surgical procedures, and incorporation of the carbon footprint into judgment criteria in research and surgical innovations. It appears that while the impact of surgery on global warming is undeniable, its extent depends on means of treatment and geographical location. Before and after an operation, primary, secondary and tertiary prevention accompanied by surgical sobriety (avoiding unnecessary or unjustified actions) can be virtuous in terms of sustainable development. However, the sanitary benefits of these actions are often opposed to environmental benefit, which has yet to be satisfactorily assessed. Lastly, the carbon footprint has yet to be incorporated into research protocols or the innovations under development. This should impel us not only to sensitize the different healthcare actors to relevant issues, but also to improve working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karem Slim
- Digestive Surgery Department, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Collectif d'Eco-Responsabilité En Santé (CERES), Beaumont, France.
| | - Frédéric Martin
- Private Hospitals of Versailles - Ramsay Santé, Versailles, France
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Gonzalez-Pizarro P, Brazzi L, Koch S, Trinks A, Muret J, Sperna Weiland N, Jovanovic G, Cortegiani A, Fernandes TD, Kranke P, Malisiova A, McConnell P, Misquita L, Romero CS, Bilotta F, De Robertis E, Buhre W. European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care consensus document on sustainability: 4 scopes to achieve a more sustainable practice. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2024; 41:260-277. [PMID: 38235604 DOI: 10.1097/eja.0000000000001942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Climate change is a defining issue for our generation. The carbon footprint of clinical practice accounts for 4.7% of European greenhouse gas emissions, with the European Union ranking as the third largest contributor to the global healthcare industry's carbon footprint, after the United States and China. Recognising the importance of urgent action, the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC) adopted the Glasgow Declaration on Environmental Sustainability in June 2023. Building on this initiative, the ESAIC Sustainability Committee now presents a consensus document in perioperative sustainability. Acknowledging wider dimensions of sustainability, beyond the environmental one, the document recognizes healthcare professionals as cornerstones for sustainable care, and puts forward recommendations in four main areas: direct emissions, energy, supply chain and waste management, and psychological and self-care of healthcare professionals. Given the urgent need to cut global carbon emissions, and the scarcity of evidence-based literature on perioperative sustainability, our methodology is based on expert opinion recommendations. A total of 90 recommendations were drafted by 13 sustainability experts in anaesthesia in March 2023, then validated by 36 experts from 24 different countries in a two-step Delphi validation process in May and June 2023. To accommodate different possibilities for action in high- versus middle-income countries, an 80% agreement threshold was set to ease implementation of the recommendations Europe-wide. All recommendations surpassed the 80% agreement threshold in the first Delphi round, and 88 recommendations achieved an agreement >90% in the second round. Recommendations include the use of very low fresh gas flow, choice of anaesthetic drug, energy and water preserving measures, "5R" policies including choice of plastics and their disposal, and recommendations to keep a healthy work environment or on the importance of fatigue in clinical practice. Executive summaries of recommendations in areas 1, 2 and 3 are available as cognitive aids that can be made available for quick reference in the operating room.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Gonzalez-Pizarro
- From the Department of Paediatric Anaesthesia and Critical Care. La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain (PGP), the Department of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Emergency, 'Citta' della Salute e della Scienza' University Hospital, Department of Surgical Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy (LB), the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) Odense, Department of Anesthesia, Hospital of Nykobing Falster, Denmark (SK), the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, and Campus Virchow Klinikum (SK), the Department of Anaesthesiology. LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany (AT), the Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. Institute Curie & PSL Research University, Paris, France (JM), the Department of Anaesthesiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (NSW), the Department of Anaesthesia and Perioperatve Medicine. Medical Faculty, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia (GJ), the Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Science, University of Palermo, Italy. Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Emergency, University Hospital Policlinico Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy (AC), the Department of Anaesthesiology, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal (TDF), the Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany (PK), the Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain. P&A Kyriakou Children's Hospital Athens Greece (AM), Royal Alexandra Hospital. Paisley, Scotland, United Kingdom (PM), Department of Neuro-anaesthesia and Neurocritical Care, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust, London, England, United Kingdom (LM), the Department of Anesthesia, Critical care and Pain Unit, Hospital General Universitario de Valencia. Research Methods Department, European University of Valencia, Spain (CR), the "Sapienza" University of Rome, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Rome, Italy (FB), the Division of Anaesthesia, Analgesia, and Intensive Care - Department of Medicine and Surgery - University of Perugia Ospedale S. Maria della Misericordia, Perugia, Italy (EDR), the Division of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, Department of Anaesthesiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands (WB)
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12
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Bromley-Dulfano R, Chan J, Jain N, Marvel J. Switching from disposable to reusable PPE. BMJ 2024; 384:e075778. [PMID: 38499293 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-075778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Bromley-Dulfano
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Harvard University, Department of Health Care Policy, Boston, MA
- Stanford Climate and Health, Stanford, CA
| | - Joshua Chan
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Climate and Health, Stanford, CA
| | - Navami Jain
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA
- Stanford Climate and Health, Stanford, CA
| | - James Marvel
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Climate and Health, Stanford, CA
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Almukhtar A, Batcup C, Bowman M, Winter-Beatty J, Leff D, Demirel P, Porat T, Judah G. Barriers and facilitators to sustainable operating theatres: a systematic review using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Int J Surg 2024; 110:554-568. [PMID: 37889570 PMCID: PMC10793789 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health sector contributes significantly to the climate crisis. Operating theatres (OTs) in particular are a major contributor of greenhouse gas emissions and waste, and while there are several evidence-based guidelines to reduce this impact, these are often not followed. The authors systematically reviewed the literature to identify barriers and facilitators of sustainable behaviour in OTs, categorising these using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). MATERIALS AND METHODS Medline, Embase, PsychInfo, and Global Health databases were searched for articles published between January 2000 and June 2023, using the concepts: barriers and facilitators, sustainability, and surgery. Two reviewers screened abstracts from identified studies, evaluated quality, and extracted data. Identified determinants were mapped to TDF domains and further themes as required. The results were reported in line with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) and AMSTAR (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) guidelines. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were selected for analysis and assessment (17 surveys and four interview studies) comprising 8286 participants, including surgeons, nurses, and anaesthetists. Eighteen themes across 10 TDF domains were identified. The most common barriers to adoption of green behaviours in OTs were in domains of: 'knowledge' ( N =18), for example knowledge of sustainable practices; 'environmental context and resources' ( N =16) for example personnel shortage and workload and inadequate recycling facilities; 'social influences' ( N =9) for example lack of leadership/organisational mandate or support; 'beliefs about consequences' ( N =9) for example concerns regarding safety. Intention was the most common facilitator, with 11 studies citing it. CONCLUSIONS Despite intentions to adopt sustainable practices in OTs, this review identified several barriers to doing so. Interventions should focus on mitigating these, especially by improving staff's knowledge of sustainability practices and working within the environmental context and time pressures. Furthermore, institutional change programmes and policies are needed to prioritise sustainability at the hospital and trust level. Additional qualitative work should also be conducted using behavioural frameworks, to more comprehensively investigate barriers and determinants to decarbonise OTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aws Almukhtar
- Department of General Surgery, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St Mary’s Hospital
| | - Carys Batcup
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London
| | - Miranda Bowman
- Department of Breast Surgery, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Daniel Leff
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St Mary’s Hospital
- Department of Breast Surgery, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | - Pelin Demirel
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London
| | - Talya Porat
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London
| | - Gaby Judah
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, St Mary’s Hospital
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Sanfilippo F, Zeidan A, Hasanin A. Disposable versus reusable medical devices and carbon footprint: old is gold. Anaesth Crit Care Pain Med 2023; 42:101285. [PMID: 37517690 DOI: 10.1016/j.accpm.2023.101285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Sanfilippo
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ahed Zeidan
- Department of Anesthesiology, King Fahad Specialist Hospital-Dammam, Dammam Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Hasanin
- Professor of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
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Winklmair N, Kieselbach G, Bopp J, Amon M, Findl O. Potential environmental effect of reducing the variation of disposable materials used for cataract surgery. J Cataract Refract Surg 2023; 49:628-634. [PMID: 36806589 DOI: 10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000001170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the cataract package variability in 1 country, Austria. SETTING Austrian Departments of Ophthalmology. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS The cataract package components of 3 different Austrian hospitals were weighed and life cycle assessment on each product performed. This data was then extrapolated to the sales figures of the main Austrian cataract package suppliers to estimate the carbon footprint of all cataract packages used in Austria in 2021. RESULTS There were 55 different cataract package compositions in use with an average weight of 0.7 kg. These compositions differ significantly in weight and composition considering that the smallest package was 57% lighter than the largest package. The size of the surgical drapes also showed considerable variation, with a difference of up to 71%. This is substantial, considering that drapes and covers account for about 53% of the package weight. CONCLUSIONS There was a considerable variation in package composition and product size, which could provide opportunities to save carbon dioxide emissions in cataract surgery. If all Austrian eye departments were to reduce the material quantities and drape sizes to the lower third of the cataract packages used in the Austria in 2021, cataract package associated CO 2 emissions could be reduced by 34%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Winklmair
- From the Vienna Institute for Research in Ocular Surgery (VIROS), A Karl Landsteiner Institute, Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria (Winklmair, Findl); Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria (Kieselbach); Sphera Solutions GmbH, Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Austria (Bopp); Academic Hospital St. John, Vienna, Austria (Amon); Sigmund Freud Private University, Vienna, Austria (Amon)
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Kampman JM, Sperna Weiland NH. Anaesthesia and environment: impact of a green anaesthesia on economics. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2023; 36:188-195. [PMID: 36700462 PMCID: PMC9973446 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000001243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The excessive growth of the health sector has created an industry that, while promoting health, is now itself responsible for a significant part of global environmental pollution. The health crisis caused by climate change urges us to transform healthcare into a sustainable industry. This review aims to raise awareness about this issue and to provide practical and evidence-based recommendations for anaesthesiologists.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolaas H. Sperna Weiland
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Anaesthesiology
- Amsterdam UMC Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Gonzalez-Pizarro P, Muret J, Brazzi L. The green anaesthesia dilemma: to which extent is it important to preserve as many drugs available as possible. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2023; 36:196-201. [PMID: 36745081 DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000001240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article aims to summarize the current literature describing the availability of different anaesthetic drugs, and to discuss the advantages and limitations of a self-imposed restriction on the scarcely existing anaesthetic drugs. RECENT FINDINGS Earth temperature has risen 1.2°C since the beginning of industrial age, and it is expected to exceed a 1.5°C increase by 2050. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change depicts five different scenarios depending on how these increased temperatures will be controlled in the future. The European Commission has formulated a proposal to regulate fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), among which desflurane, isoflurane and sevoflurane belong to, due to their high global warming potential. This proposal shall ban, or severely restrict, the use of desflurane starting January 2026. It is not clear what might happen with other F-gas anaesthetics in the future. Due to climate change, a higher number of health crisis are expected to happen, which might impair the exiting supply chains, as it has happened in previous years with propofol scarcity. SUMMARY There are just a handful number of available anaesthetics that provide for a safe hypnosis. Major stakeholders should be consulted prior making such severe decisions that affect patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Gonzalez-Pizarro
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesia and Critical Care, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; IdiPAZ - Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jane Muret
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care. Institut e Curie & PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Luca Brazzi
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Emergency, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy; Department of Surgical Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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