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Bevan Exemplar Cohort 7 Projects

A Quality Improvement Project in reducing carbon footprint in carpal tunnel surgery

Preetham Kodumuri and Prash Jesudason

Betsi Cadawaladr University Health Board

Specific information on estimation of carbon footprint of a routinely performed surgical procedure such as CTR is lacking.

This study sets out to not only estimate the carbon footprint of CTR, but also to demonstrate environmental, financial and social impact of introducing changes applying sustainable healthcare principles in BCUHB.

Project Aims/Objectives:

1. To define the carbon footprint of CTR operation as performed under standard patient pathway.

2. To reduce the carbon footprint of CTR by changing to a “lean and green theatre set up” by:

  • Using smaller trays with fewer surgical instruments & smaller drapes.
  • Reducing use of single-use items.

3. To assess the financial costs of traditional and ‘lean and green’ pathways for CTR

Project Outcomes:

  • Total of 43 patients from June –Dec 2021
  • 80% reduction in carbon footprint
  • Reduction by 22.14 Kg Co2 per case
  • 2/3 economic savings
  • Cheaper by £34.72 per CTR
  • No complications

Project Impact:

Lean and Green theatre set up alone would create annual UK savings of

  1. Environmental – 12 tonnes of Co2
  2. Financial – £1.33 millions
  3. Social – less time spent in hospital
  4. Indirect savings through less buildings energy

View the project poster and slides from Cohort 7 Exemplar Showcase