Intra-operative Use of Limb Tourniquets in Orthopaedic Surgery at GSTT
Background
Why this project was needed
Limb tourniquets are routinely used in orthopaedic surgery to create a bloodless field. Despite their widespread use, incorrect application and documentation can lead to serious complications including nerve palsy, skin injury and compartment syndrome. The British Orthopaedic Association has published guidelines on safe tourniquet use, but compliance with these standards at GSTT had not been previously assessed.
Aims
What the project set out to achieve
To define current tourniquet usage practice in orthopaedic surgery at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals and compare against national BOA guidelines.
Objectives
Specific measurable steps
- Retrospectively review operative records for all patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery with a tourniquet between January and October 2022.
- Document tourniquet pressure, inflation time, limb protection, and operator documentation.
- Identify cases where tourniquet use deviated from BOA guidelines.
- Develop recommendations for departmental guidance on tourniquet documentation and safe use.
Discussion
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