Development of base, compression, retention and stabilisation layers for surgical cooling garments
ong operating times pose significant physical challenges for surgeons: the build-up of heat under surgical gowns and the physical exertion lead to increased perspiration, which not only affects the surgeons’ well-being but also increases the risk of wound contamination from sweat. The situation is exacerbated when lead aprons are worn. At the same time, patients in the air-conditioned operating theatre (approx. 19 °C) quickly become chilled and release their body heat upwards towards the surgeons. This compromises both the performance of the surgical team and patient safety. This highlights the need for innovative solutions that both regulate body temperature and protect against wound contamination.
Approach and results
The project developed active cooling garments for surgeons and an insulating patient drape. Cooling is achieved by extracting excess heat and moisture from the body’s surface via a vacuum system. This not only reduces sweating but also minimises the release of skin bacteria into the operating theatre air, which makes a decisive contribution to infection prevention. The STFI was responsible for the functional textile layers of the surgical clothing. In addition, a patient drape was developed that reduces heat loss from the patient, thereby ensuring their comfort and thermal stability during surgery. Together, both components improve the operating environment for both surgeons and patients.