Faulkner Hospital is piloting an innovative system known as the OR Black Box®, designed to enhance surgical safety by meticulously recording operations. This AI-powered technology captures over half a million data points per surgery, documenting everything from team communications to patient vital signs. The goal is to analyze these recordings to identify patterns that could improve surgical protocols and reduce complications, moving beyond the traditionally secretive nature of operating rooms. While many in the medical community view the Black Box as a transformative tool for safety and efficiency, concerns persist about patient privacy, potential misuse of data in malpractice cases, and the impact of surveillance on staff morale.

The OR Black Box has been implemented in over two dozen hospitals across North America, and its proponents argue that it offers invaluable insights into surgical practices. By analyzing the minutiae of surgical routines, the technology can highlight areas for improvement, such as adherence to surgical safety checklists. Advocates believe that fostering a culture of transparency and accountability is essential for improving patient outcomes and overall surgical quality.