By Healthcare Facilities Today

The design of any healthcare space is an intricate process with hundreds of variables. But when the space is a hybrid operating room (OR), the complexity level reaches new—and precisely calibrated—heights.  The design process of Akron General Medical Center’s new integrated operating room and diagnostics services suite — like any health care project had to take hundreds of variables into consideration. But the hybrid OR design brought the complexity level to a new height, according to an article posted on the Healthcare Design magazine's web site.

The 6,200-square-foot space includes three new ORs that have dedicated diagnostic imaging machines and a surgical positioning and imaging systems. The Ohio facility is one of only four hospitals in the country to offer both intraoperative CT and MRI services, according to the article.

"Multiple layers of technology had to fit into these rooms,” said Dave Everhard, principal and project manager with Hasenstab Architects, in the article. “It was all constructed on the third floor of the existing hospital, so space was limited. Additionally, the rooms function by having moving parts that allow diagnostic procedures during surgery. Retractable doors, CT scanner, surgical tables, etc., all add to the complexity of the radiation shielding, acoustics, and environmental control systems of all the connected spaces."

Joe Plavecski, associate vice president of facilities for Akron General, is happy with the finished space, even beyond what it adds to the hospital’s reputation and care capabilities. "The finishes and look of the rooms are extraordinary," he said.

Read the article and view the photo gallery.