World’s first prefab operating room with fully automated disinfection technology opens in New York

The first prefabricated operating room in the world with fully automated disinfection technology opened recently at the University of Rochester Medicine Orthopedics Surgery Center in Henrietta, N.Y. The facility, developed in a former Sears store, features a system designed by Synergy Med, called Clean Cube, that had never been applied to an operating space before.

The components of the Clean Cube operating room were custom premanufactured and then shipped to the site to be assembled. The system was installed in a few weeks. It is composed of modular glass walls that are easier to clean than drywall or stainless steel, and hermetically sealed doors. All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are incorporated into the walls and ceiling. Air handling systems tailored for medical use and automated disinfection systems create a sterile field of air around the patient during surgery.

Development of the Clean Cube system was motivated by a 1 in 25 rate of hospital-acquired infections. The technology is billed as delivering “near-perfect disinfection” to the operating room.

The opening of the Orthopedic Surgery Center completes phase 2 of the 350,000 sf University of Rochester Orthopedic & Physical Performance Center. The delivery of the next phase, a four-story rehab and sports performance center that will include a grand courtyard and sports rehab services, is on track for completion in fall 2023.

“The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) will be a defining healthcare project for the country,” says Scott Hansche, principal with SLAM, architect of record for the project. “From a former Sears department store to a world-leading surgery center, we are addressing healthcare equity gaps with quality design and innovation,” Hansche says.

Project team:
Owner and/or developer: Wilmorite
Design architect: Perkins&Will's New York studio
Architect of record: The S/L/A/M Collaborative
Local Associate Architect: Dwyer Architectural
MEP/IT Engineer : ME Engineering
Structural Engineer: Jensen BRV
General contractor/construction manager: Le Chase
Civil Engineer and Landscape Architect: Bergmann Associates

The 332,000–sf design draws on the predominantly red brick character of The Christ Hospital’s existing buildings, interpreting it in a fresh and contemporary manner that fits well within the historic Mt. Auburn neighborhood while reflecting the institution’s dedication to experience, efficiency, flexibility, innovation and brand.