Six Sigma in surgery: how to create a safer culture in the operating theatre using innovative technology

Abstract

Safe delivery of patient care in the operating theatre is complex and co-dependent of many individual, organisational, and environmental factors, including patient, task and technology, individual, and human factors. The Six Sigma approach aims to implement a data-driven strategy to reduce variability and consequently improve safety. Analytical data platforms such as a Black Box ought to be embraced to support process optimisation and ultimately create a higher level of Six Sigma safety performance of the operating theatre team.

Keywords: Six Sigma; black box; operating room; quality improvement; safety culture; team training.