Surgeons Who Perform Total Hip Arthroplasty Are at Risk for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss, Especially When Using Automated Broaching.

Publication/Presentation Date

8-19-2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a serious concern for orthopedic surgeons. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) sets the safe exposure limit at 85 dB for 8 hours, yet operating rooms often surpass this limit. This study investigated if using an automated broaching system exposes orthopedic surgeons to dangerous decibel (dB) levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study analyzed 138 intraoperative sound recordings from 92 total hip arthroplasty (THA) surgeries and 46 baseline measurements at an academic-affiliated private practice, using the NIOSH Sound Level Meter (SLM) application and a microphone. The surgeries were categorized into manual and automated broaching. Key metrics measured included maximal dB level (MDL), peak sound pressure (LC

RESULTS: Of the 92 THA sound recordings, 50 used manual broaching and 42 employed automated broaching. Automated broaching exhibited higher noise levels, with an average MDL of 109.92 dBA, a LA

CONCLUSION: This study highlights the auditory risks from automated broach and manual THA surgeries that orthopedic surgeons experience. Manufacturers should focus on reducing instrument noise when designing surgical tools and orthopedic surgeons and operating room staff should take measures to protect themselves from NIHL during surgery. [

First Page

1

Last Page

6

ISSN

1938-2367

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

39163608

Department(s)

Department of Surgery

Document Type

Article

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