Deerns is designing a hybrid operating theatre (OT) for Groene Hart Hospital. Here’s where delivering high quality care and the future meet.
Healthcare is constantly evolving to deliver the best possible care to patients, including Groene Hart Hospital (GHZ) in Gouda through its investment in a hybrid operating OT. This operating theatre of the future includes advanced X-ray equipment with razor-sharp images transmitted in real-time to the operating team. Deerns is design partner in this OT project along with EGM Architects, ULC Installatietechniek, J.P. van Eesteren as structural contractor, Aronsohn as structural engineer and OKCN.
In a hybrid OT, workflows converge into a single moment rather than isolated sequencing. Radiology is no longer separate from surgery and consequently the surgeon, OR team and radiologist are together around the operating table. Vascular surgeon, Evert Waasdorp of GHZ, highlights the undeniable advantages: “The less invasive operation method and accurate imaging enhances the quality of operations significantly. Patients also recover faster with lower risk of infection or other problems. They can therefore have a shorter hospital stay and can go home sooner.”
Ensuring hygienic standards
A critical element of the OT is the integration of an advanced tripod system: a large X-ray arch which slides back and forth on the ceiling via an elaborate rail system. To meet the challenges of no contamination in the OT, Deerns designed a high performing ultra-clean ventilation system (Opragon), which creates a clean air flow over the operating area via spheres on the ceiling.
Hans Schaap, Senior Advisor at Deerns says: “Deerns is committed to the proper functioning of advanced system to reduce risk of infection, working closely with suppliers such as Philips and Opragon.”
Seamless integration into the existing complex
The OR fits seamlessly into the existing surgical complex, located on the second floor. Design of the technical room ensures optimal operation of the OR, packed with critical air treatment systems, HEPA filters, steam humidification and a satellite equipment room, which houses all data and electrical supplies.
A sustainable care environment
The technical room comes equipped with a heat recovery system, which efficiently recycles heat and moisture from air flows. This meets GHZ’s sustainability agenda (Route ’31). Sustainability is inherent in the flexible design of ventilation system in the OR itself, providing on-demand fresh air. Motion sensors activate the ventilation system on detecting movement in the room, drastically reducing energy consumption without compromising high hygiene standards.
These measures contribute to a lower environmental footprint as well as ensuring a healthy and safe working environment for the medical staff.
Deerns worked closely with the structural engineer, the design team and GHZ to create an efficient and safe construction environment. The expected completion date of the hybrid OR is August 2024.
