The minimally invasive surgical suite enters the 21st century - A discussion of critical design elements

Most minimally invasive surgical procedures are now performed in operating rooms that were originally designed for traditional open surgery, Laparosco pic instrumentation such as insufflators, light sources, and camera control units must be placed on one or more equipment carts. After the cart has be en moved into place, insufflation tubing, video cables, light cords, cauter y lines, and foot controls must be positioned and connected, This cart-base d paradigm restricts the ergonomic configuration of the operating room and creates potential mechanical, electrical, and biological hazards to the pat ient and operating room staff In order to decrease clutter, ease personnel movement, improve ergonomics, maintain the sterile field, and facilitate th e use of advanced imaging, communication, and display devices, an appropria tely designed operating environment is essential. Herein we detail both the theoretical and practical aspects of die design and describe the implement ation and utilization of such a suite in our hospital. These design element s may prove to be critical to the next generation of minimally invasive sur gical suites and will facilitate future advanced laparoscopic procedures.