Usability of an Automated-Warehouse Container System Synchronizing with Surgical Operation Schedule

Abstract

 Shinshu University Hospital has developed a new container storage management system. In Japan, this is the first system which linked with a reservation system for surgical operations. Instrument containers for a scheduled operation can be reserved by doctors using a terminal computer. Information of container contents can be displayed and searched with a web-based browser. To maintain high level of cleanliness, the warehouse was built into a closed space. Using the system it is easy to manage expiration date of sterilized instruments. Reserved containers in the system can be transported automatically to a clean area on the day of operation. This automated-warehouse container system synchronizing with surgical operation schedule gives us many benefits to manage instruments for operations.