Impact of Excessive Noise Generation in Orthopaedic Operating Theatres: A Comprehensive Review.

Abstract

Excessive noise in the orthopaedic operating theatre (OT) is an underrecognized and often neglected health hazard noticed amongst surgeons, patientsand theatre and scrub practitioners. A comprehensive search strategy was conducted using databases, such as PubMed, Scopusand Web of Science, with the search words 'noise', 'NIHL'and 'orthopaedics' to retrieve the significant data and generate this narrative review. We evaluated the typical causes, potential hazardsand negative effects of noise-induced impacts on OT personnel and patients. Strategies to mitigate the effects of unnecessary, disproportionate noises in the OT environment were explored.Excessive noise generated in orthopaedic OTs can produce several negative effects on patients, surgeonsand staff.Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a rare and under-noticed disorder. The orthopaedic OT environment, with the ever-increasing use of power tools and surgical instruments, contributes to detrimental noise generation. NIHL is an occupational hazard. Raising awareness, appropriate trainingand clinical governance in collaboration with the hospital risk management team amongst all the medical and paramedical fraternities working in orthopaedic theatres can mitigate challenges faced due to the deleterious effects of excessive noise. We proposerecommendations and standard operating protocols that can be incorporated into hospital policies to prevent NIHL among the orthopaedic fraternity and patients alike.