Understanding Causes and Consequences in the Operating Room Associated with Distractions, Interruptions, and Disruptions: A Focused Literature Review

Speaker(s)

Lin M1, Hsiao CC2, Pan LC2
1Alcon Vision LLC, Ann Arbor, MI, USA, 2Alcon Vision LLC, Fort Worth, TX, USA

Presentation Documents

OBJECTIVES: Drawing from previous literature, we observed the influence of disruptions on performance and patient safety. However, the underlying reasons for disruptions during surgery have not been fully identified, and the possible economic consequences have yet to be examined. To address these gaps, we undertook a focused literature review to build upon existing knowledge regarding intraoperative disruptions. Our aim was to assess the causes of these issues and their potential impact on performance and patient safety, while also identifying areas for further investigation, particularly in the realm of financial implications.

METHODS: A focused literature review using PubMed was performed to identify English-language studies from January 1, 2020, to November 8, 2023, focusing on disruption, distraction, and interruption during surgical procedures. No restrictions were placed on study design. The extracted information included the reasons behind intraoperative disruptions and their impact.

RESULTS: A total of 20 articles were reviewed, incorporating a mix of survey and observational studies. The reasons for operating room disruptions were categorized into two main groups: human-related noise and device-related issues. Human-related noise primarily consisted of door openings and avoidable human-caused sounds. Additionally, device-related disruptions, such as device failure, improper assembly, and disconnection, were identified as contributors to operating room interruptions. These interruptions were found to result in poor patient outcomes, prolonged operative durations, increased stress among care providers, and heightened mental workload. No studies assessed the financial impact of operating room disruption, yet such disruptions could escalate economic burdens due to poor patient outcomes and prolonged operation durations, leading to increased costs for both patients and providers.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study expand on existing knowledge by highlighting the key causes associated with intraoperative disruptions and their impact on patient outcomes and practice dynamics. Further studies are needed to quantify the financial implications of operating room disruption.

Code

HSD16

Disease

Medical Devices, No Additional Disease & Conditions/Specialized Treatment Areas