[Possibilities for process optimization in orthopedic surgery]

It is mandatory to include all professions involved in the operating room (OR) in any attempt to improve the process. Early and detailed planning, short interruptions to change OR patients and a variable end of the day combined with transparent decision hierarchies help to ensure that things run smoothly. Parallel processes are essential for accelerating the change of patients. The different duties and responsibilities have to be documented. This can be done either in the records of quality management or in a special OR statutes. The evaluation and analysis of process critical parameters, including surgery as well as anesthesiology, are essential for maintaining the continuous process of improvement.