"Exploring Environmental Factors in Neurosurgical and Ophthalmology Operating Rooms to Mitigate Surgical Site Infections: An Observation Study."

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are infections that patients can acquire after undergoing surgery in a hospital. These infections are quite common and can pose a significant risk to the patient's health. The operating room (OR) is a sterile space with regulated airflow, humidity, and pressure to ensure a clean environment. OR traffic should be minimized to maintain sterility and reduce SSI risks. Methods: This observational study aimed to understand how operating room staff behavior and environmental factors affect surgical outcomes. The study was conducted for 4 weeks at a teaching hospital and focused on 10 neurosurgical procedures. The research student leading the study observed OR traffic patterns and documented environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and pressure. Automated data acquisition was implemented for ophthalmology cases. Results: The study found correlations between particulate sizes and room conditions in an operating room. 0.3μm particulate size had a moderate to strong positive correlation of 0.737, while 1.0μm showed a very weak positive correlation of 0.087. The 5.0μm particulate size had a moderate positive correlation of 0.344, with 11.8% variability attributed to observed operating room traffic. The study also noted mild fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and pressure within the operating room. Conclusion: A prospective research study conducted at a university-affiliated teaching hospital suggests a potential link between the OR environment and the risk of developing surgical site infections (SSIs). However, the study's limitations and small sample size must be considered when interpreting the findings. Future research should address these constraints for accurate results. Understanding the OR environment is crucial in preventing SSIs, improving patient outcomes, and reducing the burden of postoperative complications. Public Health Significance: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are of a significant concern in the healthcare industry, particularly in neurosurgery and ophthalmology. SSIs result in physical discomfort, extended hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and mortality. By prioritizing prevention of SSIs, healthcare resources can be utilized more efficiently, reducing the economic burden on the healthcare system. Controlling SSIs is crucial for maintaining high standards of patient care, reducing healthcare burden, preventing infections, and fostering a more equitable healthcare system