Optimizing Imaging Systems for Multiple Procedures, Part 3: Streamlining the Hybrid OR

This is Part 3 in a 5-part series about optimizing multi-procedure imaging systems. Part 1 offered an overview of the benefits. Part 2 detailed how these systems enhance the patient experience. In Part 3, we’ll show how they increase staff efficiency.

Imaging systems capable of performing multiple procedures influence better medical outcomes by increasing productivity and flexibility in the hybrid OR. Here are four ways multi-procedure imaging systems improve hospital efficiency.

1. Perform More Procedures In The Same Space

Traditional imaging labs are specialty-specific, typically accommodating only one type of procedure or discipline. That’s inefficient because spaces sit idle when no one needs them. Unused spaces cause delays for other high-demand procedures. Hospitals have rooms, but the rooms don’t have the necessary equipment.

Multi-procedure imaging systems can help hospitals reduce wasted space and meet demand. A hybrid lab can be used for heart catheterizations, cardiology, neurology, surgery, and interventional radiology. Spaces can still be semi-dedicated to specific disciplines but also available if needed for others. For example, hospitals can temporarily shift peripheral work to an available cath lab if the IR is full.

By optimizing the use of these spaces, hospitals can ensure that no room sits idle for long periods. This flexibility allows for a more efficient allocation of resources, ultimately leading to better patient care and higher throughput. Additionally, the ability to perform various procedures in the same space can significantly reduce the need for patients to be moved from one room to another, minimizing disruption and improving the overall patient experience.

2. Scheduling Flexibility & Physician Preferences

Multi-procedure imaging systems also offer scheduling flexibility. Hospitals can schedule procedures in any available room that accommodates them rather than wait for dedicated spaces.

They can also save space, which is always at a premium. Hospitals no longer need 12 different rooms for 12 different procedures. Now, they can accommodate the same number of procedures (or more) with just six rooms, for example.

Another benefit: multi-procedure imaging systems cater to individual surgeon preferences. For example, two surgeons might prefer different skull clamps. Rather than set up dedicated spaces for each, staff can simply swap attachments between procedures.

This flexibility is particularly valuable in busy hospitals where the demand for imaging services is high. By being able to quickly and easily adjust to different surgeons' needs, hospitals can ensure that procedures are performed efficiently and effectively, without unnecessary delays. This also fosters a more collaborative environment, where equipment and spaces are shared seamlessly among different departments and specialists.

3. Intraprocedural Flexibility

With multi-procedure imaging systems, staff can quickly switch between imaging and treatment during procedures. IGT (Image-Guided Therapy) and hybrid OR suites enable caregivers to conduct more than one procedure during the same surgery. They can also transition from minimally invasive surgeries to open procedures if needed.

Facilitated by positioning aids, attachments, and accessories, these flexible spaces increase productivity and cost-efficiency while helping hospitals treat more patients in less time.

For example, during a complex cardiac procedure, a team might need to perform both diagnostic imaging and therapeutic interventions. A multi-procedure imaging system allows them to seamlessly switch between these tasks without having to move the patient or set up additional equipment. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of complications associated with patient movement and multiple setup processes.

4. Quicker Setup and Conversion Time Between Procedures

An optimized imaging suite facilitates quick changeover between procedures, which improves staff productivity and helps hospitals serve more patients.

For example, a room outfitted with a C-arm could perform multiple types of fluoroscopic procedures – a GI barium test for one patient, an angiography for the next, and an orthopedic procedure for the next.

By minimizing the downtime between procedures, hospitals can maximize the use of their imaging equipment. This is particularly important in high-volume settings where every minute counts. Quick setup and conversion times also mean that emergency cases can be accommodated more readily, ensuring that critical patients receive the care they need without delay.

5. Enhanced Collaboration and Training Opportunities

Multi-procedure imaging systems also promote a collaborative work environment. With shared access to advanced imaging technology, different departments can work together more effectively. This collaboration can lead to better patient outcomes, as various specialists bring their expertise to the table, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

Additionally, these systems provide excellent training opportunities for medical staff. New employees can be trained on the latest imaging technology in a multi-procedure environment, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle a wide range of scenarios. This not only enhances the quality of care but also improves staff morale and retention by providing them with valuable skills and experience.

6. Cost Savings Through Reduced Equipment Redundancy

Another significant advantage of multi-procedure imaging systems is the cost savings achieved through reduced equipment redundancy. Instead of investing in separate machines for each type of procedure, hospitals can invest in versatile imaging systems that can handle multiple tasks. This approach reduces capital expenditure and lowers ongoing maintenance and operational costs.

For instance, instead of maintaining separate fluoroscopy units for gastrointestinal and vascular procedures, a single multi-procedure system can be used for both. This not only saves money but also simplifies inventory management and reduces the space required for equipment storage.

Conclusion

Multi-procedure imaging systems are a game-changer for hospital efficiency, particularly in the hybrid OR. By performing more procedures in the same space, offering scheduling flexibility, providing intraprocedural flexibility, and facilitating quicker setup and conversion times, these systems enhance productivity and streamline operations.

Moreover, they promote collaboration among healthcare professionals, offer valuable training opportunities, and lead to significant cost savings by reducing equipment redundancy. Hospitals that adopt these systems can better meet the demands of modern healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and operate more efficiently.

Next Steps

See how optimizing imaging systems for multiple procedures can help hospitals maximize profits in Part 4 of this series, where we'll discuss how optimizing imaging systems for multiple procedures improves hospital profitability.