Ultraportable surgical enclosure : human centered design for high usability in unpredictable environments

Abstract

Access to safe and sterile surgical infrastructure dramatically reduces the risk of infection for both patients and medical providers. However, this access is limited for many, especially those in austere environments and developing countries. SurgiBox is a product that aims to solve this problem by providing a sterile surgical micro-environment in a cost-effective manner. SurgiBox is a transparent, inflatable plastic enclosure which isolates the surgical site, creating a localized, sterile region in which surgical procedures may take place. The two primary markets -- humanitarian and defense applications -- have overlapping needs and similar design constraints. For both markets SurgiBox needs to be highly portable and useful in unpredictable environments with ad-hoc medical infrastructure. Using SurgiBox should be a predictable, reliable, and easy to understand experience even in the most unpredictable environments. The redesign of SurgiBox components through a Human Centered Design approach has enhanced its usability, effectiveness, and efficiency for both patients and medical providers.