Preparing for surgery involves a series of instructions designed to ensure patient safety and optimize outcomes. Among these, the directive to remove all jewelry is a standard and important safety measure. Leaving jewelry on during a surgical procedure can introduce several risks, potentially complicating the process or impacting patient well-being. Understanding these precautions can help patients feel more prepared and confident as they approach their surgery.
Understanding the Risks: Why Jewelry Must Go
Jewelry removal before surgery is a safety protocol addressing concerns like electrical conductivity, physical injury, infection control, and interference with medical equipment. During many surgeries, electrocautery devices are used to cut tissue and seal blood vessels. Metal jewelry can act as a conductor, creating an alternative pathway for this electricity, which may result in burns at the jewelry’s contact point or other areas on the body.
Beyond electrical risks, jewelry poses physical hazards. Rings, bracelets, or necklaces can snag on surgical drapes, instruments, or other equipment, potentially causing pressure injuries, skin tears, or obstructing the surgical field. Swelling during and after surgery can also cause rings to become tourniquets, restricting blood flow and potentially leading to tissue damage.
Infection control is another serious consideration. Jewelry can harbor bacteria, making it challenging to maintain a sterile surgical site. This increases the risk of surgical site infections by introducing pathogens to the operating area. Healthcare guidelines emphasize removing all jewelry to reduce microbial colonization.
Metal jewelry can interfere significantly with various medical imaging and monitoring technologies. During an MRI scan, powerful magnetic fields can cause metallic objects to heat up, potentially leading to severe burns, or even become dangerous projectiles. Metal can also distort MRI images, obscuring crucial details and making accurate diagnosis difficult. For X-rays and CT scans, jewelry can block radiation, creating bright spots or “artifacts” that obscure the underlying anatomy, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or the need for repeat scans. Pulse oximeters, which measure blood oxygen levels, can also be affected by jewelry or nail polish, leading to inaccurate readings.
Addressing Difficult-to-Remove Jewelry
Sometimes, jewelry cannot be easily removed due to swelling or joint changes. For stuck rings, techniques include using lubricants (like soap and water), elevating the hand to reduce swelling, or employing a string or dental floss method to compress the finger and slide the ring off. If these methods are unsuccessful, medical staff may need to cut the ring, especially if swelling compromises circulation.
For permanent piercings or body jewelry, complete removal may not be feasible. Patients can often replace metal jewelry with non-conductive retainers made from medical-grade plastic (PTFE, Bioflex) or glass. These materials are inert, flexible, and safe for medical procedures, as they do not interfere with electrical currents or imaging. The decision to use a retainer or tape a piercing rests with the medical team, who assess risks based on surgery type and jewelry location. Patients should communicate any difficult-to-remove jewelry to their surgical team in advance.
Safe Handling of Your Valuables
The best approach for managing jewelry and other valuables before surgery is to leave them at home. This eliminates risk of loss, damage, or interference during the hospital stay. Hospitals typically state they are not responsible for lost or misplaced patient belongings.
If bringing valuables is unavoidable, patients should entrust them to a trusted family member or friend to take home before the procedure. Hospitals often have limited secure storage, like lockers or safes, but these are usually temporary, and responsibility remains with the patient. Discuss hospital policies regarding personal items with staff before arrival.