Operating rooms generate up to 30% of a hospital's waste–what can ENT do to change that? In this episode, Dr. Julie Strychowsky, a pediatric otolaryngologist at London Health Sciences Center in Ontario, discusses environmental sustainability in ENT.

---

SYNPOSIS

The discussion covers the inefficiencies and environmental impacts of current practices, such as the use of nitrous oxide, disposable equipment, and OR waste. Dr. Strychowsky shares insights on transitioning to more sustainable practices, including the use of reusable and multi-use equipment, standardizing procedures, and patient education initiatives like the ‘Bring Your Own Bag’ campaign. The doctors highlight the importance of climate change, the carbon footprint of healthcare, and the role of policy and innovation in reducing environmental impact. Finally, they discuss resources for further learning and potential areas for research and development in sustainable healthcare practices.

---

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

02:51 - Climate Change and Its Impact on Health

05:07 - Surgical Sustainability: Reducing OR Waste

08:27 - Clinic Waste and Efficiency Improvements

16:12 - Anesthesia Gases and Environmental Impact

23:06 - In-Office Procedures and Telemedicine in ENT

28:58 - Global Efforts & Patient Involvement in Sustainability

37:03 - Policy Changes and Education for Sustainability

39:59 - Future Research and Innovation in ENT

42:26 - Final Thoughts and Mentorship

---

RESOURCES

Dr. Julie Strychowsky

https://www.schulich.uwo.ca/paediatricsurgery/people/faculty/Strychowsky,%20Julie.html

Kidane J, Thiel CL, Wang K, Rosen CA, Gandhi S. A Comparison of Environmental Impacts Between Reusable and Disposable Flexible Laryngoscopes. Laryngoscope. 2024 Dec 26. doi: 10.1002/lary.31927. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39723758.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39723758/

Anderson J, Hu H. Environmental Sustainability: Waste Audit Comparison Operating Room and In-Office Laryngeal Surgery. Laryngoscope. 2024 Feb;134(2):803-806. doi: 10.1002/lary.31005. Epub 2023 Sep 2. PMID: 37658737.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37658737/

Cascade OR playbook

https://cascadescanada.ca/