An AIM Lab Website
The article by Jodi D. Sherman, MD, and Harriet W. Hopf, MD, addresses the tension between infection control and environmental protection in healthcare, using the example of laryngoscope handle decontamination. It explores how the pursuit of stringent infection control measures has unintended environmental consequences, particularly in the use of single-use disposable devices. Key Insights: Historical […]
The study by Russell F. Mankes, PhD, investigates the issue of propofol wastage within the healthcare system, highlighting its environmental and cost implications. The study was conducted in a surgical center where propofol wastage was identified as a significant contributor to both environmental contamination and unnecessary healthcare costs. Key Findings: Extent of Wastage: Propofol accounted […]
The article explores the environmental impacts of anesthetic drugs through a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA), focusing on five common anesthetics: sevoflurane, desflurane, isoflurane, nitrous oxide (N2O), and propofol. This analysis includes all stages from production to disposal, highlighting the significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with these drugs, especially when compared across different use […]
The article by Jeffrey M. Feldman, MD, MSE, focuses on strategies for managing fresh gas flow in anesthesia to minimize environmental contamination and reduce waste. It emphasizes the significant impact that anesthetic gases have on global warming and provides practical advice on how to use these gases more efficiently during different phases of anesthesia. Key […]
The study by Susan M. Ryan, MD, PhD, and Claus J. Nielsen, CSc, investigates the global warming potential (GWP) of inhaled anesthetics—sevoflurane, isoflurane, and desflurane—considering their application in clinical settings. These anesthetics are potent greenhouse gases, and understanding their environmental impact can guide more sustainable medical practices. Key Findings: GWP Values: Desflurane was found to […]
The article by Matt Campbell and J.M. Tom Pierce addresses the significant environmental impact of anesthetic practices, particularly focusing on the atmospheric implications of inhalational anesthetic agents such as sevoflurane, isoflurane, and desflurane. These agents are highlighted for their high global warming potentials, far exceeding that of CO2, and their role in contributing to the […]
The article by Matthew J. Eckelman and Jodi Sherman provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental impacts attributed to the U.S. healthcare sector and their subsequent effects on public health. It employs an economic input-output life cycle assessment (EIOLCA) model to estimate emissions directly and indirectly associated with healthcare and evaluates their public health implications […]