How Noisy are Total Knee and Hip Replacements?. Issue 12 (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Simpson, JP; Hamer, AJ
• Is Part Of: Journal of perioperative practice. Volume 27:Issue 12(2017)
• Page Start: 292
• Page End: 295
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: Noise-induced hearing loss -- Orthopaedic surgery -- Arthroplasty -- Orthopaedic tools; Operating room nursing -- Periodicals; 617.9192
• DOI: 10.1177/175045891702701204
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2515-7949

Abstract

Orthopaedic theatre can be noisy. Fifty percent of orthopaedic theatre staff have features of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). In this study, decibel (dB) levels were recorded in 17 total knee replacements (TKRs) and 11 total hip replacements (THRs). Noise levels reached 105.6dB(A) using a hammer and 97.9dB(A) with an oscillating saw. Exposure to levels above 90dB (which occurred in every case) even for short time periods is proven to cause irreversible loss of hearing. Tools used in orthopaedic theatre produce impulse noises that can cause NIHL. Further investigation is required.