Knowledge of Mexican surgeons about sustainable operating rooms and net zero practices: a survey.

OBJECTIVE

To make an initial assessment of the attitudes and knowledge of Mexican general surgeons regarding sustainable operating rooms and net zero policies. Operating rooms are the primary producers of greenhouse gas emissions in the healthcare system. The implementation of measures to achieve sustainable operating rooms must be preceded by an understanding of current practices, the surgical staff's interest in the topic, and potential areas of opportunity.

METHODS

Observational, prospective, cross-sectional study based on an anonymous virtual survey distributed by email to all members of the Mexican Association of General Surgery between October 2023 and March 2024 The questions focused on five topics: general data, use of textiles, anesthesia techniques, waste generation and use of disposable materials and consumption of water and energy.

RESULTS

A total of 726 responses were obtained. 12% were familiar with the term net zero and incorporated related measures into their daily practice. 8.4% reported that their hospital has an action plan in this regard.

CONCLUSIONS

The survey reveals a low level of knowledge about sustainable operating rooms and net-zero practices among the surveyed surgeons, as well as a scarcity of action plans to achieve green operating rooms in Mexico; however, it highlights the respondents´ interest in learning more about the topic.