2025

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Blood Transfusion in Pediatric Neurosurgeries: A Practical Guide

The Lay Medical Man

Introduction Blood transfusion in pediatric neurosurgery, particularly for procedures like craniosynostosis repair , requires a careful and calculated approach. The unique physiological characteristics of children—especially infants—demand precise blood volume estimation , loss assessment , and transfusion decision-making to ensure safety and optimal outcomes.

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SPD Best Practices: Essential Guidelines for Sterile Processing Excellence

SpecialtyCare

Table of Contents The Foundation of Safe Surgery: SPD Best Practices Core SPD Best Practices for Decontamination Point-of-Use Treatment Manual Cleaning Protocols Automated Cleaning Systems Personal Protective Equipment Sterilization SPD Best Practices Load Configuration and Packaging Steam Sterilization Excellence Low-Temperature Sterilization Quality Assurance Testing Inventory Management SPD Best Practices Sterile Storage Excellence Inventory Tracking Systems Distribution Coordination Technolo

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Caresyntax and Qaelon Medical Announce Data Intelligence Partnership to Address Devastating Impact of Surgical Leaks

Caresyntax

San Francisco, CA and Strasbourg, France 09 Jan 2025 Caresyntax , the world-leading developer of surgical intelligence platforms and Qaelon Medical , a medtech pioneer in surgical leak detection technologies, announced a partnership to build the first real-world evidence (RWE) platform to address the catastrophic impact of surgical leaks. Multi-Phase Partnership to Redefine Surgical Leak Detection: Qaelon Medical and Caresyntax are launching a multi-phase partnership for the measurement and c

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Why Surgical Assistants Are Essential for Efficient Office Suites

Platinum Meidcal Staffing

In the fast-paced world of surgery, efficiency isnt just a luxuryits a necessity. Surgeons working in office suites or surgical centers rely heavily on their surgical assistants, RNFAs (Registered Nurse First Assistants), and PAs (Physician Assistants) to streamline procedures, save time, and reduce costs. These skilled professionals are more than just support staffthey are vital team members who enhance the overall workflow.

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Peer Mentorship in the Classroom and Beyond

ARC/STSA

By Michele Romero, CER, CIS, CRCST, CST, MEd Peer mentorship plays a critical role in the education and development of students, particularly in fields like the surgical sciences. For surgical technology, where precision, skill and knowledge are paramount, peer mentorship in the classroom can help bridge the gap between theory and practice. While many programs implement peer teaching to some extent, peer mentorship takes this a step further, allowing experienced Surgical Technology students the

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Pre-Operative, Intra-Operative, and Post-Operative Warming

Nashville Anesthesia Professionals

Maintaining normothermia (normal body temperature) throughout the perioperative period is a critical component of patient safety and recovery. Perioperative hypothermia, defined as a core body temperature below 36°C, is a frequent and preventable complication associated with anesthesia and surgical procedures. Hypothermia can result in a range of adverse outcomes, including increased risk of surgical site infections, coagulopathy, prolonged hospitalization, and delayed wound healing (1).

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Amid outbreaks, vaccine policy shifts, experts offer practical strategies to safeguard OR staff

OR Manager

Takeaways—What perioperative leaders need to know • Major federal policy shifts, such as restricted COVID-19 vaccine eligibility and the removal of the CDC’s ACIP members, have coincided with the largest US measles outbreak in decades and rising pertussis and flu activity, heightening concern about vaccine-preventable diseases in healthcare settings. • Experts and updated AORN guidelines […] The post Amid outbreaks, vaccine policy shifts, experts offer practical strategies to safegua

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Positioning a Patient with a Broken Bone for Spinal Anesthesia

Radius Anesthesia

Patients with a fracture may require surgery to reposition or restructure their bones, and spinal anesthesia is an excellent tool for pain management in many orthopedic surgeries. However, positioning these patients for the administration of spinal anesthesia presents unique clinical challenges due to the pain and physical limitations resulting from their broken bone(s).

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Chlorhexidine vs. Povidone Iodine: Which Antiseptic is Best for Medical Use?

Trocar Supplies

Selecting the right antiseptic is a critical step in preventing infection during medical procedures. Chlorhexidine and povidone iodine are two of the most widely used options, known commercially as Chloraprep and Betadine. While both are effective, their differences in chemical makeup, antimicrobial properties, and clinical applications can influence which is the better choice in a given setting.

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ANAPHYLAXIS DURING GENERAL ANAESTHESIA

Anaesthesia News

Death or permanent disability from anaphylaxis in anaesthesia may be avoidable if the reaction is recognised early and managed optimally. Recognition of anaphylaxis during anaesthesia is usually delayed because key features such as hypotension and bronchospasm more commonly have a different cause. If anaphylaxis is suspected during anaesthesia, it is the anaesthetist’s responsibility to ensure the patient is referred for investigation.

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Dialing 911 for young patients – is EMS prepared?

The Stitch

Imagine waking up to find your child struggling to breathe. You quickly dial 911 for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and anxiously await the arrival of The post Dialing 911 for young patients is EMS prepared? appeared first on Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network.

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The Vital Role of a Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant in Modern Healthcare

SpecialtyCare

Table of Contents What is a Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant? Key Responsibilities of a Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant Training and Education for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistants The Impact of a Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant on Patient Care Career Opportunities and Growth for Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistants Conclusion Among the key players in the operating room is the Cardiothoracic Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) , a highly skilled professional who wor

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The Immediate and Future Capability of Telepresence in Surgical Operations

Caresyntax

Within the expansive growth of telepresence in recent years, real-time remote consultation capabilities have advanced at a similar pace, both out of necessity and by innovation. The application of remote consultation through telepresence is a significant step forward for surgical care, offering amongst other possibilities, increased efficiency in surgical practices, and expanded access to expertise and training.

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Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System launches program aimed at optimizing surgical pain management and reducing opioid use

Goldfinch Health

Surgery has long been known as a gateway to long-term opioid painkiller use and dependence. Studies show 9% of surgery patients who have never used an opioid become long-term users of opioids after being legally prescribed opioids after a surgery. “Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System’s mission and vision are to advance health together and be the most trusted partner in health.

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How to End Case Delays Using AI

Sullivan Healthcare Consulting

Surgeons severely dislike it when their cases are delayed, and delays negatively impact hospital financial performance. Yet, many delays can be avoided by using AI. Getting Started Avoiding case delays starts with tracking the major causes and using AI to proactively identify patients and procedures with a high probability of not starting on time. Success depends on following a four-step process: Step 1: Analyze Historical Data Most EMRs, like Epic, track reasons for case delays.

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Featured Author Podcast: Patient Blood Management and Surgical Outcomes

Anesthesiology Journal

Moderator: James P. Rathmell, M.D. Participants: Albert Garcia-Casanovas, M.H.A. and Douglas Colquhoun, M.B., M.Sc., M.P.H.

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Progress…

The Surgical Tech Student

Be patient with yourself. Progress takes time. If I’m not doing the same thing over & over again, I quickly forget things. This is why I take notes & photos & keep them in my binder in my locker. I can grab them at any time. My coworkers can also use them. Here are some photos of my progress with a new surgeon & setting up for his Thyroidectomies as I learned his preferences & how he liked things, as well as how I preferred to set up for them, too… ^ April 10 My 1

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Enhancing ASC Revenue Cycle Management and Optimizing Cash Flow 

Surgical Information Systems

ASC revenue cycle management is complex, with challenges at every stage that can delay payments and impact cash flow. By improving workflows, training staff, staying current on rules, leveraging the right tools, and evaluating whether to outsource some or all revenue cycle functions to ASC billing experts , surgery centers can streamline operations and strengthen financial performance.

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Perioperative Medicine: A Value-Driven Strategy for Hospital Growth and Efficiency

Somnia

Surgical care remains one of the most significant drivers of overall hospital cost—yet the medical readiness of complex surgical patients is often overlooked in financial and operational planning. While the cost-effectiveness of any surgery requires consideration of both short- and long-term improvements in patient outcomes and quality of life, the episode-of-care cost varies depending on individual circumstances.

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Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at USMD Hospital at Arlington

USMD Health System

Minimally invasive spine surgery at USMD Arlington offers less pain, smaller incisions, and faster recovery with advanced robotic and navigation tech.

Surgery 78
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Many Hands for Minimally-Invasive Surgery

AAS

Ethics Committee Cover Art Entry – Clinical photo from 2021 that illustrates the thankless aspects of surgery, the gifted hands that contribute to surgery through retraction and positioning. Photo captured during a minimally-invasive open arthroplasty of a temporomandibular joint prosthesis. The post Many Hands for Minimally-Invasive Surgery appeared first on Association for Academic Surgery (AAS).

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Scrubs to startups: Viral neurosurgeon is breaking barriers, fixing spines, advocating for safer ORs

OR Manager

When Betsy Grunch, MD, FAANS, FACS, FCNS, board-certified neurosurgeon known on Tik Tok and Instagram as @Ladyspinedoc, watched a viral video of a surgeon berating an OR nurse during a livestreamed procedure, she was incredibly bothered by the shameful display. She took to her popular platform and spoke out against that behavior, breaking down exactly […] The post Scrubs to startups: Viral neurosurgeon is breaking barriers, fixing spines, advocating for safer ORs appeared first on OR Manag

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How Different Modalities in IONM Work

SpecialtyCare

What is IONM? Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) is the use of electrophysiological methods to assess, monitor, and map the function of nervous system structures (the brain, the spinal cord, and all the nerves that branch from those structures) in order to improve surgical outcomes. IONM provides surgeons with real-time data during complex surgeries so that potential neurological injuries can be prevented.

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Data Is the Key to Improving Quality and Increasing the Value of Robotic Surgery

Caresyntax

By Dr. Bruce Ramshaw, Chief Medical Informatics Officer, Caresyntax As the robotics community gathers for the 2025 Society of Robotic Surgery (SRS) annual meeting , the conversation is maturing. We’ve moved from asking “what’s possible?” to “where’s the value?” This two-part series explores that question—starting with today’s reality: despite rapid innovation, the robotic surgery space faces a critical evidence gap.

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Unlocking Operational Efficiency with OR Manager: A Comprehensive Guide

Picis

Operational efficiency is paramount in operating rooms (ORs), where every second counts and resources must be optimized to ensure the best possible patient outcomes. In today’s healthcare environment, where demands on OR teams continue to grow, finding ways to improve efficiency and streamline processes is more crucial than ever. Enter OR Manager – a comprehensive solution designed to enhance productivity and streamline operations in OR settings.

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Highest Paying Healthcare Technician Jobs for 2025

Incredible Health

The healthcare industry offers a wide range of opportunities for technicians and technologists, many of which dont require advanced degrees or extensive certification, but still offer competitive salaries and rewarding work for healthcare professionals of all levels. If youre exploring a career as a healthcare tech or looking for a specialty that aligns with your […] The post Highest Paying Healthcare Technician Jobs for 2025 appeared first on Incredible Health.

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Featured Author Podcast: Pediatric Quality of Recovery Scale

Anesthesiology Journal

Moderator: James P. Rathmell, M.D. Participants: Paul Lee-Archer and Clyde Matava, M.B.Ch.B., M.Med., M.H.S.C.

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Lead with Confidence…

The Surgical Tech Student

It can be hard at times to be confident in yourself in the operating room. There are still a few cases where I’m not totally confident in myself. There are times I still get nervous to ask questions or speak up about things or even just to defend myself when the need arises. I would rather be quiet & move on. There will always be times I don’t think I’m good enough (but there are plenty of people who think I am & have said as much ).

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The Secret Weapon in Your CRNA Application? Your Truth.

The CRNA Chase

Your personal statement is more than just another application requirement—it’s your voice, your experience, and your “why” all rolled into one. At this point in the CRNA application process, you’re looking to prove yourself on paper. Now, you need to demonstrate to the admissions committee who you are beyond your GPA and critical care experience. When every applicant is qualified, your story is what sets you apart.

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Turning ASC Data Into Action: Your Questions Answered

Surgical Information Systems

Gabriella DeSantis, Revenue Cycle Manager, for Surgical Information Systems (SIS), recently hosted a webinar on Turning Data Into Action: KPIs and Benchmarking for ASCs. During the program, she discussed strategies for collecting, analyzing, and comparing ASC data using software and analytics tools to drive performance.

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Robotic Spine Surgery at USMD Hospital at Arlington

USMD Health System

Select Language English Spanish Vietnamese Now hiring Registered Nurses and Certified Surgical Technologists Apply Now USMD Hospital at Arlington receives Excellence in Prostate Cancer Surgery recognition Research Physician Directory icon-search 817-646-5200 phone Contact and Directions icon-map Price Estimates icon-billing Home Español Vietnamese Physician Directory About USMD About Us Facility USMD Arlington Leadership Team Awards Services All Services Non-surgical Services Radiology Services

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Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Geoffrey Dunn: Why Surgical Palliative Care and Mentorship Deserve Our Investment

AAS

In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of surgery, it’s easy to become singularly focused on curing disease or achieving technical excellence. But all of us who have walked alongside patients facing life-limiting illness know that there is another kind of skill—quieter, but no less vital—that defines excellent surgical care: the ability to meet patients where they … The post Honoring the Legacy of Dr.

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Mobile ORs can change the game, bridge gaps in surgical care

OR Manager

Imagine an innovative, safe, and highly efficient OR not confined by walls but on wheels—crossing rugged terrains, bustling cities, and disaster-stricken areas to deliver life-saving surgical care in More » The post Mobile ORs can change the game, bridge gaps in surgical care appeared first on OR Manager.

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Sterile Processing Certification Quiz: Test Your Knowledge with SpecialtyCare

SpecialtyCare

Table of Contents Prepare for Success in Sterile Processing Certification About Sterile Processing Certification Sterile Processing Certification Quiz Section 1: Decontamination and Cleaning Section 2: Packaging and Sterilization Section 3: Quality Assurance and Safety Section 4: Instrument Processing and Handling Section 5: Regulatory and Professional Standards Advancing Your Career with SpecialtyCare Comprehensive Training Programs Certification Support Career Advancement Opportunities Continu

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6 Benefits of Standardizing Medical Equipment in Healthcare

CME Corp

For acute care hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), the consistency of medical equipment can directly affect patient outcomes, staff efficiency, operational costs, and regulatory compliance. These days standardization is no longer just a buzz word; it is a shift in mindset. Think about it, when a nurse reaches for a defibrillator in an emergency, they need to know exactly how to use it, without any guesswork.

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Enhance Your Team’s Proficiency with Expert Training 

Picis

At Picis, we recognize the importance of continuous learning in optimizing the utilization of healthcare technology. Research indicates that organizations prioritizing employee training tend to achieve a 24% higher profit margin and 218% greater income per employee compared to those that do not invest in training. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, equipping your team with the latest skills and knowledge is essential.

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Top 10 U.S. Cities for Healthcare Technician Jobs in 2025

Incredible Health

There are many reasons why healthcare is one of the largest and most popular industries in the U.S., from the constant (and growing) demand to the job stability it offers. Healthcare technicians and technologists, in particular, are always in high demand for the crucial role they play in the healthcare system. Whether youre considering a […] The post Top 10 U.S.

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