Orthopaedic theatre noise: a potential hazard to patients

Potentially hazardous noise levels are generated in the course of major orthopaedic surgery. The risk to staff is probably real but very small. We used a sound level meter to record maximum and mean levels and found peak values which exceeded 100 dB(A). If sustained, there is a possibility of significant inner ear damage and perhaps permanent troublesome tinnitus, especially among elderly and already hearing‐impaired patients. This could be eliminated by the use of ear defenders or disposable earplugs.