Bundang Seoul National University Hospital Establishes World's First RFID Surgical Instrument Tracking System

by Lee Gwanju

Published 20 Apr.2023 08:06(KST)

Bundang Seoul National University Hospital announced on the 20th that it has succeeded in establishing the world's first surgical instrument tracking system using RFID technology.

RFID-based surgical instrument tracking system. [Photo by Bundang Seoul National University Hospital]

Various surgical instruments such as scalpels, scissors, and forceps, excluding disposable consumables, are reused after undergoing cleaning and sterilization processes. Recently, systems that enable tracking and management of these reprocessing procedures have been introduced worldwide; however, in cases where system computers and equipment are not available, staff typically check and manage these processes manually.

Bundang Seoul National University Hospital has established the world's first surgical instrument tracking and management system using RFID and has begun operating the tracking process. RFID is a system that can recognize stored information without direct contact between the recognition device and the object. Unlike barcodes, which require close proximity and individual verification, RFID has the advantage of being able to recognize a large number of surgical sets simultaneously.

The surgical instrument tracking system is designed to allow verification of all records and statuses from the receipt to the issuance of surgical instruments. RFID tags attached to surgical sets input information in real-time through RFID devices installed in multiple locations within the central supply room. This information is linked to the surgical instrument tracking program and immediately reflected in the computer system, enabling efficient preparation and management of surgical instruments from anywhere. Additionally, it allows pre-sharing of the validity period, usage history, special notes, and issues related to surgical instruments, so that even if problems occur, the exact cause can be identified and appropriate follow-up actions can be taken.

As a result, the average monthly number of errors occurring when sterilizing surgical instruments used in actual operating rooms decreased from 10.3 cases to 3.8 cases, and the job satisfaction of operating room nurses using the tracking system significantly improved from 51.05 points to 80.75 points (out of 100).

Hospital Director Song Jeong-han stated, "Proper management of surgical instruments is directly related to the safety of patients and medical staff, so we are making every effort to ensure effective infection control on site," adding, "Bundang Seoul National University Hospital will continue technological innovations and improvement activities to create a safe hospital environment."