Advancing Patient Safety with Modern Technology in Hybrid Operating Rooms 

Emilie M. Diggs, RID, IIDA, NCIDQ

Hybrid operating rooms (ORs) are transforming surgical care by blending the capabilities of traditional operating rooms with advanced image-guided intervention technologies. This combination enables complex procedures to be conducted with greater precision and efficiency, ultimately improving patient safety and outcomes. The integration of imaging before, during, and after surgery provides real-time insights that support accurate decision-making throughout the procedure.

A key element of hybrid OR design is the incorporation of modern technology which plays a pivotal role in minimizing infection risks and enhancing the safety of the surgical environment. A notable feature of these rooms is the Integrated Manifold System (IMS); this significantly improves air quality by reducing airborne particles. Traditional air curtains allow up to 100,000 particles per cubic foot while IMS technology reduces this to only 100 particles per cubic foot. This reduction in airborne particulates is crucial in decreasing the likelihood of surgical site infections which is vital for maintaining patient safety.

Improved Patient Safety with Advanced Technology

The hybrid OR’s ability to accommodate both minimally invasive and open surgeries within the same room offers numerous benefits. Should a minimally invasive procedure need to be converted to an open surgery, the necessary imaging, equipment, and support staff are available on-site, ensuring seamless and timely care.

The continuous imaging capabilities of the hybrid OR allow surgeons to access real-time data throughout the surgery, enabling more precise and informed decision-making. This constant flow of imaging information minimizes the risk of complications and ensures the procedure is carried out with the utmost accuracy, supporting patient safety.

The IMS system also plays a critical role in maintaining a sterile environment. By reducing airborne particulates, hybrid ORs create a cleaner atmosphere that lowers infection risks, which contributes to faster recovery and better patient outcomes.

Enhanced Operational Efficiency and Cost Reduction

Hybrid ORs also improve operational efficiency, offering significant advantages in the clinical setting. By consolidating imaging, surgical equipment, and other essential technologies into one space, these rooms eliminate the need for duplicative resources and save time. Surgeons can adjust treatment plans and perform procedures without needing to move to different rooms, optimizing the use of space and allowing other operating rooms to be used for other procedures.

The ability to perform a variety of advanced medical procedures, such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) in a single room not only streamlines the surgical process but also reduces the number of procedures a patient may need. This, in turn, helps to accelerate recovery and lowers healthcare costs.

Strategic Design for Effective Hybrid Operating Rooms

Designing an efficient hybrid OR requires careful planning and collaboration across various teams, including clinical staff, administrators, facility planners, and IT professionals. The design must meet the unique needs of the surgical team while also prioritizing patient safety. Hybrid ORs are typically larger than traditional ORs, averaging 1,100 square feet, and must include specialized equipment such as advanced imaging systems, integrated equipment controls, and a positive pressure laminar airflow system to maintain sterility.

The design process carefully considers the workflow of the medical team, the optimal placement of equipment, and the room’s functionality to ensure that the entire surgical process is efficient, safe, and well-organized.

A Focus on Improving Patient Outcomes

At Apogee Consulting Group, we are committed to helping healthcare facilities deliver the highest standard of care. Through thoughtful design and the integration of advanced technologies like IMS and state-of-the-art imaging systems, we support the creation of hybrid ORs that reduce infection risks, enhance surgical outcomes, and improve operational efficiency. By combining innovative technology with careful design, we ensure that patients receive the safest and most effective care possible.