Music in the OR-Is it Safe?

This month's Journal of the American College of Surgeons features an article examining ambient noise in the operating room and its effect on auditory performance and speech comprehension of surgeons. Noise originates from equipment, alarms, staff conversations or music. Over 60% of surgeons listen to music in the OR. This study examined the effects of different noise levels on multiple variables. A significant decrease in comprehension was found with ambient noise when the surgeon was masked and something unpredictable was said. The addition of music did not have a significant effect on the surgeon until the surgeon was completing a task. This suggests that comprehension deteriorates with a combination of variables: ambient noise (including music), unpredictable communication and concentration on a task. Reduction of OR noise may enhance cognitive performance and communication in the OR.