The February edition of General Surgery News reports on an item presented at the American Society of Anaesthesiologists in which a dim green ambient light was preferred to complete darkness by the team (other than the surgeon) participating in laparoscopic surgeries. The research suggested that bathing the room in a dim green light accomplishes the goal of giving surgeons a clear view of monitors without forcing others to feel as if they are “working in a tomb.” It also claims that by adding a heightened degree of vision compared with “Can I have the lights off please?”, the overall environment is safer as people can better avoid hazards such as tripping over cables.
The report states that; “The internal surgical site is unaffected because it is still illuminated under white light. No glare or screen washout was seen. Anesthesiologists were able to read labels and plunger lines without walking over to a reading light and potentially tripping en route. They could also better assess the patient to see whether his or her head or limbs moved. Flashlights are still kept handy, however, Dr. Goldman of Massachussetts General Hospital said.
The success of the trial has led MGH to expand the green lights to 28 ORs. “Once you go green,” Dr. Goldman said, “it’s hard to go back.”
The full article can be found here.
Source: General Surgery News
published: March 5, 2012 in: Anaesthesia, Offline