Recent research has uncovered the remarkable environmental advantages of reducing anastomotic leaks while simultaneously improving patient outcomes.
Published by the esteemed Surgery Open Science journal and presented at prestigious conferences including the European Society of Coloproctology and Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, these findings shed light on the positive impact that surgical advancements can have on the environment.
The research, conducted by J&J MedTech Health Economics and Medical Affairs teams in collaboration with colorectal surgeons and sustainability experts from renowned institutions such as St. Gallen Hospital in Switzerland and the Sustainable Healthcare Coalition in the UK, marks the first study of its kind to assess the environmental impact associated with the treatment of anastomotic leaks. By following the guidelines set by the Sustainable Healthcare Coalition, the researchers performed an extensive environmental impact assessment, providing valuable insights into the consequences of these complications.
The study revealed that reducing one anastomotic leak could result in an average climate saving of 1303 kg CO₂-eq, equivalent to five return flights from London to Rome.
Additionally, it could lead to a water saving of 1803 m³, which is seventeen times the annual water use of an average European household. The research further highlighted a waste saving of 123 kg, equivalent to nearly three times the monthly waste generation of an average European individual.
Healthcare systems around the world are grappling with the need to improve their environmental sustainability, making the reduction of complications a crucial strategy. By minimizing the occurrence of anastomotic leaks, healthcare providers can actively contribute to the preservation of the planet while enhancing patient care.
An examination of the care pathway for anastomotic leaks revealed that stoma home management accounted for the largest share of both the climate impact (46.6%) and the waste impact (47.3%) associated with these patients. In-patient hospital stay, on the other hand, contributed the most to the total water impact (46.7%). Understanding these specific areas allows for targeted interventions to mitigate the environmental burden associated with anastomotic leaks. Anastomotic leaks not only burden patients and the healthcare system but also have a significant environmental impact.
To address this complication comprehensively, J&J Medtech's Colorectal NEXT program aims to tackle the multifactorial nature of anastomotic leaks with one program. By improving patient outcomes and experiences, this program endeavors to alleviate the economic, clinical, and environmental burdens associated with anastomotic leaks.
Daniela Della Monica, EMEA Vice President of J&J MedTech Surgery, emphasized the significance of these research findings, stating, " It is highly rewarding to see that improving outcomes in colorectal care can positively impact both the patients J&J MedTech aims to serve and the world we live in. Through collaborative efforts between researchers, healthcare providers, and industry pioneers, we can forge a path towards a greener and healthier future for all "
By identifying risk factors and implementing preventive strategies, surgeons can play a crucial role in minimizing or even avoiding complications related to anastomotic leaks.
This latest research deepens our understanding of the environmental implications of surgical interventions, calling for a more sustainable approach to healthcare. As the global healthcare community continues to strive for better patient care and greater environmental responsibility, the significant benefits of reducing anastomotic leaks have become increasingly evident.
References: 1. Bischofberger S, Adshead F, Moore K, et al. Assessing the environmental impact of an anastomotic leak care pathway Surg Open Sci. 2023;14:81–86. 2. J&J MedTech Colorectal NEXT 2-Pager. Available at: https://www.jnjmedtech.com/en-EMEA/eradicating-anastomotic-leaks Last accessed: August 2024. 3. Kirchhoff P, Clavien PA, Hahnloser D. Complications in colorectal surgery: risk factors and preventive strategies. Patient Saf Surg. 2010;4(1):5.
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