It is very cold in the ophthalmic operating theatre. Is this normal?

Operating theatres for all specialties must be kept at fairly cool temperatures. Heat promotes the growth of micro-organisms and therefore we always keep the operating theatres at the ideal temperature. But don't worry, we always cover patients as necessary with very cosy blankets.

The Excimer Laser (LASIK) room is even colder (17-18ºC) to provide optimal laser operating conditions. In this case the operation is very short (only 10 minutes inside the room) and no patients should feel the cold once covered with a thick blanket. It is the staff (refractive surgeon, scrub nurse and laser optometrist) who need to be dressed warmly because sessions can be long.

Created: 01/01/2012 / Updated: 08/10/2024