More and more healthcare facilities are choosing to create a hybrid catheterization lab, which combines the traditional diagnostic functions of a Cath lab with surgical functions of a standard operating room.
Hybrid Cath labs are popular with interventional cardiologists, neurosurgeons, vascular surgeons and cardiac surgeons.
Designing a hybrid Cath lab isn’t as easy as just combining a traditional Cath lab and a surgical suite. There are three areas that must be focused upon: your staff/culture, the design and the planning process.
Regarding staffing, you’ll need a multi-disciplinary merger of the interventional cardiologists who play the primary role in a Cath lab, and the surgeons that will now operate within the hybrid Cath lab. This requires a team approach. It’s wise for planners and architects to meet with these parties to determine their respective roles and needs.
Other medical professionals who will be using the hybrid Cath lab include those involved in electrophysiology, cardiology, surgery, anesthesiology, perfusion and echo. It can be challenging to determine the layout scenario that’s needed for each team to perform its duties during procedures. Getting feedback and buy-in from all parties is essential. Hospital administrators should also be involved and set the tone of teamwork and cooperation.
There are a lot of steps and considerations, which include:
Budget and Project Management
- Work with stakeholders to define the budget.
- Plan for future upgrades as technology evolves.
- Engage experienced project managers to oversee timelines and regulatory approvals.
Design and Space Planning
- Size: Ensure sufficient space for equipment, personnel, and patient flow. A typical hybrid Cath lab is 800–1,200 square feet.
- Location: Vibration, HVAC, and radiation exposure all require consideration when choosing a location. Be aware that vibration sources can affect the lab operations, doing vibration testing is essential.
- Layout: You need to include zones for sterile and non-sterile areas, equipment storage, staff workflows and more. Ensure clear delineation of surgical and imaging zones.
- Ceiling Height: You will need to accommodate imaging systems (e.g., C-arms) that require higher ceilings than standard ORs.
Imaging Systems
- You’ll need to select the advanced imaging equipment you want to use, such as a fixed C-arm or robotic imaging system.
- Be sure to ensure compatibility with real-time 3D imaging, CT and fluoroscopy.
- Plan for a high-resolution display system with multi-modality integration.
Workflow Optimization
- Ensure ergonomic placement of equipment for ease of access.
- Provide ample storage for surgical and imaging tools within the lab.
- Plan for patient flow, including pre-procedure and post-procedure areas.
Technology Integration
- Integrate surgical tables compatible with imaging systems.
- Install ceiling-mounted booms for lights, cameras and anesthesia equipment.
- Incorporate a centralized control panel for imaging, lighting and monitoring.
Utilities and Infrastructure
- Plan for electrical, data and gas outlets to accommodate equipment and emergency needs.
- Ensure redundancy for critical systems, such as power and oxygen supply.
- Include audiovisual capabilities for remote consultation and teaching.
Safety and Compliance
- Adhere to local and international healthcare facility standards (e.g., NFPA 99, IEC 60601).
- Conduct radiation shielding assessments and incorporate lead-lined walls if necessary.
- Include fire safety measures and emergency egress paths.
Training and Simulation
- Allow time for staff training on new equipment and workflow in the hybrid environment.
- Conduct mock procedures to test design and workflow efficiency.
Talk To An Expert
Atlantis Worldwide has been helping healthcare operations with medical imaging needs and requirements for more than 31 years. Our team is happy to share their expertise with you as you move forward with a hybrid Cath lab or more traditional medical imaging workspaces.
To find out more, contact Atlantis Worldwide Today!
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About the author: Vikki Harmonay
