Operation Theaters

OT is a facility within a hospital where surgical operations are carried out in an aseptic environment.

Operating rooms are spacious, in a clean room, and well-lit, typically with overhead surgical lights, and may have viewing screens and monitors. Special air handlers filter the air and maintain a slightly elevated pressure. Electricity support has backup systems in case of a black-out. Rooms are supplied with wall suction, oxygen, and possibly other anesthetic gases. Several operating rooms are part of the operating suite that forms a distinct section within the clinic. Besides the operating rooms and their wash rooms, it contains rooms for personnel to change, wash, and rest, preparation and recovery rooms, storage and cleaning facilities.

On the day of surgery, the patient will lie on a bed that is wheeled into the operating theatre. The surgical team will wear caps, masks and gowns to help prevent infection.

If you are having a general anaesthetic, the anaesthetist will put a small tube (cannula) into a vein in the back of your hand or arm. The anaesthetic will be injected into the cannula. You might feel a slight stinging sensation, but once the drugs start to work you won’t be aware of what’s happening. Some people say that having a general anaesthetic feels like a deep, dreamless sleep.

During surgery under general anaesthetic, a machine called a ventilator helps you breathe or may breathe for you. The anaesthetist constantly checks your vital signs (heart rate, temperature, blood pressure and blood oxygen levels) to ensure they remain at normal levels. They also give you pain medicine so you are comfortable when you wake up.

When the surgery is finished, the anaesthetic will begin to wear off slowly, or you will be given more medicine to reverse the effects. You’ll be taken to the recovery room and your vital signs will be checked until you are fully awake.