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S U R G I C A L
P O W E R
Simply put, the devices that cut, bore
that are moving parts on power tools.
and shave bone for the implantation
of plates, screws or joint components
5. Maintenance and service
have a lot of moving parts themselves.
The safest power tool is one that's
Some of those parts are sharp and can
always functioning properly. Make
be activated inadvertently. When trial-
sure your tools undergo routine
ing new tools, look for models with
maintenance in the hands of a trained
the smallest number of exposed mov-
biomedical engineer, either one
ing parts.
you've hired in-house or one you con-
Staff must handle surgical power
tract out to. Taking regular steps to
tools carefully between uses. When a
keep the moving parts moving will
tool is passed, the person receiving it
keep tools at work in the OR and not
might not grab the handle. If staffers
sitting on a shelf waiting for service.
should grasp one of the moving parts
When purchasing surgical tools, the
— such as the nose or chuck —
manufacturer's brand is usually a
when the trigger is accidentally
major deciding factor. As with home
pressed, they could easily be injured
improvement tools, the name the sur-
by the sharp at the business end as it
geon is comfortable and confident
makes contact with their hand or
with, that has performed consistently
gets tangled in their sleeve. Even if
for him, is something he'll return to.
an inadvertent activation doesn't
Just be sure that the name and dura-
cause injury, it can surely compro-
bility are backed up by reliable and
mise the sterility of a case. A power
responsive service. When unexpected
tool's sharp that perforates a glove or
breakdowns occur, loaner tools
tears a gown can create a contamina-
should be readily available while
tion situation. It's therefore important
repairs are being made. OSM
that staff learn safe passing practices
not just for scalpels, suture needles
and syringes, but also for the sharps
5 8
SUPPLEMENT
TO
Dr. Metz
(cmetz@northernorthopedics.com) is a
staff physician at Northern Orthopedics
in Brainerd, Minn.
O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E | A U G U S T 2013
