Reducing Veterinary Waste: Surgical Site Infection Risk and the Ecological Impact of Woven and Disposable Drapes

Abstract

PICO questionIn animals undergoing surgery, does the use of disposable synthetic drapes reduce the risk of surgical site infections when compared to reusable woven drapes?Clinical bottom lineCurrent literature on the risk of surgical site infection with disposable and reusable drapes in animals is limited. Three human studies were reviewed, one systematic review and two controlled trials. Both these study types generally provide high levels of evidence; however their individual limitations reduce the quality of their data. Overall the results were mixed, and due to the small number of reviewed papers and the fact that only one study specifically measured surgical site infection as the outcome, it is not possible to conclude that disposable drapes reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSI) when compared to reusable drapes.The impact of the veterinary profession on the ecosystem is often ignored. When following the One Health concept, vets must consider the ecological impact of clinical decisions. Choosing reusable drapes for certain clean, elective procedures may be a way to reduce waste without compromising the health of patients.

Perspectives of vets on plastics in veterinary medicine

“…19 Despite the veterinary sector's considerable contribution to plastic waste production globally, the scientific literature is devoid of data on the topic of plastic waste reduction within the field. 7 In fact, one review found only three peer-reviewed publications on the topic of sustainability in the veterinary sector: one in anaesthesia, and two related to production animal medicine. 20 In searching for data on the use of disposable plastic within the veterinary scientific literature, no primary research papers were found.…”

“…In 2014, 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste were created in Australia 6 . Veterinary medicine, like all medical industries, is a major contributor to plastic waste production 7 . However, the dependence on disposable plastic is environmentally unsustainable due to the three most common potential fates of disposable plastic used in a clinic: 1 Incineration – may release harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, such as dioxin‐like compounds that are released when polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic is burned 8 …”

“…However, the ability to implement more sustainable practices hinges on the attitudes of individuals towards sustainability, as these attitudes drive choices and behavior 19 . Despite the veterinary sector's considerable contribution to plastic waste production globally, the scientific literature is devoid of data on the topic of plastic waste reduction within the field 7 . In fact, one review found only three peer‐reviewed publications on the topic of sustainability in the veterinary sector: one in anaesthesia, and two related to production animal medicine 20 .…”