Noise levels during total hip arthroplasty: the silent health hazard

Abstract

Background: While there is an enormous amount of data on various surgical aspects of total hip arthroplasty (THA), there is only limited literature on the health hazards incurred by the surgical team. Since THA surgery produces noise, exposure over a long period of time may lead to gradual hearing loss which is known as noise-induced hearing loss. Methods: We investigated the noise levels during THA and compared it with the maximum allowed limits at the workplace in the United Kingdom. In collaboration with specialised audio engineers, we analysed the noise levels during various steps of performing 7 uncemented THA. Results: The results showed that the noise levels were close to the allowed limits for a workplace in the UK. Conclusion: Hospitals and staff who work in orthopaedic operating theatres should be aware of this risk and precautions should be put in place.