Striking a balance: strategies for addressing single-use surgical equipment in infection prevention.

Abstract

Single-use surgical equipment is a standard strategy to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission in the operative room. However, this practice is associated with a great environmental impact. Reusable surgical tools represent an opportunity to reduce this impact, with many studies showing a 50% or greater reduction in carbon emissions by switching to reusable alternatives. While the safety of reusable equipment depends on strict sterilization protocols, the risk of infection is minimal when guidelines are followed. To advance sustainability in healthcare, we must balance infection prevention priorities, operational challenges, and the environmental considerations.