Operating Room Staff' Perceptions of the Reprocessing of Disposable Tools in Minimally Invasive Procedures: A Qualitative Study Publisher



Sadati L ; Ramezanpour E ; Askarkhah A ; Karami S ; Movahednia Z
Source: Perioperative Care and Operating Room Management Published:2026

Abstract

Background: The global surge in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has increased reliance on single-use devices (SUDs). In Iran, however, economic constraints and instrument shortages have driven the unregulated reprocessing of disposable tools, creating a critical tension between cost-efficiency and patient safety. This study explores operating room staff perceptions regarding this practice. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 42 operating room staff from 26 Iranian provinces each possessing at least three years of experience in minimally MIS teams. Purposive and snowball sampling were utilized until data saturation was reached. Data analysis followed Graneheim and Lundman's (2004) six-step model. Results: Analysis revealed three overarching categories: Challenges (health threats, lack of professional ethics adherence, mismanagement), Benefits (supporting health economics, social accountability), and Requirements and Provision (education and evaluation, resource management). Participants highlighted severe risks, including non-compliance with sterilization protocols, instrument degradation, and lack of informed consent. While economic benefits were acknowledged, they were often overshadowed by concerns regarding surgical infections and ethical dilemmas. Conclusion: The increasing reuse of disposable MIS tools without standardized protocols poses significant ethical and clinical risks. To safeguard patient health, healthcare policymakers must prioritize the development and implementation of evidence-based, country-specific reprocessing guidelines that balance economic realities with uncompromising safety standards. © 2026 Elsevier Inc.