Seattle Children’s Hospital has made the decision to close 10 of its operating rooms to implement new air filtration systems after a troubling series of events linked to mold exposure, which resulted in the deaths of six patients. This issue appears to have persisted for nearly two decades, with at least 14 individuals suffering from mold infections during surgical procedures.
CEO’s Statement on Safety Concerns
During a recent press conference, the hospital’s CEO, Mark Thompson, stated, “We have been trying to ensure our operating rooms are safe from aspergillus infections, but we have not been successful thus far.” Aspergillus is a common type of mold that typically poses no threat to healthy individuals; however, it can lead to severe infections when it enters surgical wounds. Symptoms can include swelling and heat at the infection site, and in serious cases, patients may develop lung infections from inhaling spores. Those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
Reflection on Past Incidents
Thompson reflected on past incidents, saying, “Initially, we thought these cases were isolated. We now recognize that the air-handling system in our operating rooms likely contributed to these infections.” He expressed regret for not connecting the dots sooner, admitting, “In hindsight, we failed.”
Response to Long-Standing Mold Issues
The closure of the operating rooms comes in response to long-standing mold issues documented by state and county health departments. Just last year, a surgeon reported debris falling from an air diffuser into a patient’s open abdomen during surgery. The hospital is now installing HEPA air filtration systems, which are the most effective available in operating rooms, designed to remove 99.97 percent of airborne particles. The renovations are expected to be completed by the end of January, during which time surgeries will be relocated to other medical facilities.
Hospital’s Acknowledgment and Apology
In a statement, the hospital acknowledged that this closure will delay many surgeries and expressed regret for the impact on families and patients. “We understand this is a difficult situation for everyone involved,” the statement read. “However, we believe this is the safest path forward for our patients.”
Thompson extended his apologies to those affected by the infections and their families, stating, “This is devastating for everyone involved. You are incredible kids and brave families. We let you down and I am truly sorry.”
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Conclusion
In summary, Seattle Children’s Hospital has closed 10 operating rooms to address mold issues linked to patient infections and deaths, implementing advanced air filtration systems to enhance safety. This closure will delay surgeries but is deemed necessary for patient protection.