Pulse contour techniques for perioperative hemodynamic monitoring: A nationwide carbon footprint and cost estimation

The question of environmentally sustainable perioperative medicine represents a new challenge in an era of cost constraints and climate crisis. The French Society of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care (SFAR) recommends stroke volume optimization in high-risk surgical patients. Pulse contour techniques have become increasingly popular for stroke volume monitoring during surgery. Some require the use of specific disposable pressure transducers (DPTs), whereas others can be used with standard DPTs.

Quantify and compare the carbon footprint and cost of pulse contour techniques using specific and standard DPTs on a yearly basis and at a national level.

We estimated the number of high-risk surgical patients monitored every year in France with a pulse contour technique, and the plastic waste, carbon footprint and cost associated with the use of specific and standard DPTs.

When compared to pulse contour techniques working with a standard DPT, techniques requiring a specific DPT are responsible for an increase in carbon dioxide emission estimated at 65-83 tons/yr and for additional hospital cost estimated at €67 million/yr. If, as recommended by the SFAR, all high-risk surgical patients were monitored, the difference would reach 179-227 tons/yr for the environmental impact and €187 million/yr for the economic impact.

From an environmental and economic standpoint, pulse contour techniques working with standard DPTs should be recommended for the perioperative hemodynamic monitoring of high-risk surgical patients.