Feasibility Assessment of Performing Surgery in a Deployable Medical System Operating Room

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the feasibility of performing surgery in a Deployable Medical System (DEPMEDS) operating room versus a fixed facility operating room. The focus of the research was on the implications of utilizing DEPMEDS as a substitute surgical suite. The primary study group consisted of both military and civilian hospitals, that utilized DEPMEDS, military surgical experiences during times of deployment, and military training exercises. The data analysis demonstrated evidence in favor of performing surgical procedures in DEPMEDS, as well as contributing to the training and readiness of medical personnel. Based on the variety of DEPMEDS environments presented in this paper, it is evident that DEPMEDS can enhance the ability of military medical personnel to respond to the ever-changing military medical environment. An attempt should be made to perform definitive surgical care cases in DEPMEDS whenever possible. Tracking the DEPMEDS experience from planning phase to completion is an essential and integral method, which provides an expansion of the Army Medical Department database. With the data provided, DEPMEDS may become more feasible, practical, and effective in all environments.