Technology
digital technology continues to evolve, ongoing efforts in standardisation will play a pivotal role in optimising the efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of surgical care. Digital technology in surgery may involve collecting, storing and sharing sensitive personal data of patients, such as their medical history, biometric information, location, images and videos. This raises concerns about how this data is protected from unauthorised access, misuse or breach, and who has the right to access or use it. Digital technology in surgery may affect the ability of patients to make informed and voluntary decisions about their own healthcare. For example, patients may not be aware of how their data is used or shared. Digital technology in surgery often involves the collection and processing of various types of patient data, which is highly sensitive and must be protected from unauthorised access, misuse, or breaches. Healthcare providers and technology developers must implement robust security measures and adhere to stringent privacy regulations to safeguard patient information. Patient consent is a fundamental aspect of data privacy in the digital operating theatre. Informed consent ensures that patients have a clear understanding of how their data will be collected, used, and shared. It empowers patients to make voluntary and autonomous decisions about their healthcare and personal information. Obtaining informed consent for the
use of digital technology requires clear and transparent communication between healthcare providers and patients. Patients should be educated about the purpose, benefits, and potential risks associated with the use of digital technology in their surgical care. They should also be informed about their rights4
accessible and understandable information. In cases where patients may lack decision-making capacity, appropriate substitute decision- makers or legal frameworks should be in place to ensure that their rights are protected. Beyond consent, healthcare providers and
technology developers must also prioritise data governance and accountability. This includes implementing strict access controls, encryption, and audit trails to track and monitor the use of patient data. Policies and procedures should be in place to address breaches, incidents, or unauthorised access promptly and transparently. Regulatory bodies and ethical guidelines
play a crucial role in shaping data privacy and consent practices in the digital operating theatre. Compliance with relevant laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the UK and European
Union, must be ensured. Additionally, healthcare organisations should adhere to ethical guidelines and principles, such as those outlined by professional societies or research ethics committees.
By prioritising data privacy and consent in the
use of digital technology, healthcare providers can foster trust, transparency, and patient- centred care. Patients who feel confident that their data is protected and that their rights are respected are more likely to engage actively in their healthcare decisions and trust the healthcare system. Data privacy and consent are crucial considerations in the use of digital technology in the operating theatre.5
Robust security
measures, clear communication, and informed consent processes are necessary to protect sensitive patient data and respect patient
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regarding data privacy and given
the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification. Consent processes should take into account the specific context of digital technology use. For instance, patients should be made aware of how their data may be utilised for research purposes or shared with external experts for consultation. Clear guidelines should be established regarding the retention and deletion of patient data, ensuring that data is not retained for longer than necessary. It is important to address any potential
challenges or limitations in obtaining informed consent in the digital operating theatre. Patients may have varying levels of familiarity or comfort with digital technology, and efforts should be made to provide
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July 2023 I
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