November 22, 2002

While surgery without incisions is still the subject of science fiction, the MGH is stepping closer to other imminent surgical advances with the introduction of an "operating room of the future." A collaboration between MGH clinicians and members of the Center for Integration of Medicine and Innovative Technology (CIMIT), the operating room (OR) of the future is a state-of-the-art site that is being used to test newly approved surgical and information systems technologies. After two years of planning, the room opened for use at the end of August.

Noticeable differences between this and other ORs are the lack of massive machinery, no winding cords strewn on the floor and numerous electronic devices. The room also can handle up to three patients at a time – all in different stages of OR care – cutting down on precious time used moving patients from surgery to recovery.

A large screen is mounted on the wall to give the medical staff and observers clear views of the surgery. All room operations – such as equipment monitors, lighting and environment controls – are directed from central locations so that surgeons and nurses can access them more easily.

The MGH and CIMIT team is comprised of physicians,nurses, biomedical engineers, OR administrators, information systems experts, industry partners and architects, collaboratively working toward the same goal: better and more efficient patient care.

"Designing this room, which we hope will optimize the newest developments in surgery, requires more than just plugging in new technologies," says David Rattner, MD, director of CIMIT's Minimally Invasive Surgery Program and chief of MGH General Surgery. "Our goal is to bring together different disciplines and technologies to work collaboratively to provide the best patient care environment."

The project aims include improving patient flow and comfort; enhancing staff productivity; improving the ability to track patients, staff and equipment; educating clinicians and staff on the proper use of the new devices; and measuring the room's effectiveness according to patient safety standards, cost containment and using resources efficiently.