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Operation Heatjac |
Operation Heatjac Heated Apparel
Chilly in the OR?
Operation Heatjac is a
lightweight garment
worn under the scrubs
around the torso. It
comes in 3 sizes and can
be powered by trans-
formers, rechargeable
batteries, or, in the case
of the least expensive
model, air-activated
hand-warming packs.
Prices range from $105 to
$279, and all models pro-
vide more than enough
heat for the average pro-
cedure. I think a lot of
people will be glad to pay
those prices for some OR
comfort.
Mark Silverberg, DDS,
MD, the inventor of this device, has an interesting theory about the
controversy surrounding forced hot air systems and surgical site
infections. To the extent that there are related infections, he says,
they're more likely caused by anesthesia providers (and others) who
briefly remove the hoses from the systems and put them down their
shirts or up their pant legs to warm themselves in frigid ORs. I have to
admit, I've seen it happen many times.
• WAIST OF WARMTH Operation Heatjac is an inexpensive way to stop
providers from shivering.
