Noise pollution in the operating room: a hazard to surgeons, personnel, and patients.
Noise levels up to 118 dB--a level that is potentially damaging to the hearing--were measured in the operating room, notably during the use of high-speed gas turbine bone-cutting drills. Suction tips, which had trapped tissue "whistles" inside, yielded noise levels of up to 96 dB. Surgeons, staff, and patients should be cautioned against such noises and shielded in prolonged cases. We offer a review of acoustical criteria for various practical noises and duration of safe exposure.
Ray
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Institute for Low Back Care, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55407.
Levinson
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D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D004430:Ear Protective Devices; D006319:Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009622:Noise / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009873:Operating Rooms; D013523:Surgical Equipment / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014012:Tinnitus / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*