Instrument and Supply Variability in Operating Rooms: Potential for Cost Savings and Environmental Impact

There is significant variability in instrument and supply choices among surgeons performing common general surgery operations. This study analyzed surgeon preference cards for various operations and found that the number of sterilizable instrument trays and disposable supplies varied greatly. The variability in supply costs and carbon footprint was also substantial. Standardizing these choices could lead to significant cost savings and reduction in the carbon footprint, especially if implemented across the entire healthcare system.