Abstract: Optimizing the operating room environment is necessary to minimize the
prevalence of arthroplasty infection. Reduction of bacterial contamination in the
operating room should be a primary focus of all members of the operating room
team. However, in recent years, there has been a decline in the emphasis of the basic
principles of antisepsis in many operating rooms. The purpose of this review is to
highlight important considerations for optimizing the operating room environment.
These principles should be actively promoted by orthopedic surgeons in their
operating rooms as part of a comprehensive approach to minimizing arthroplasty
infection. Key words: clean operating room, infection, arthroplasty.
© 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.