Barriers to the integration of medical technologies in the operating theatres of general referral hospitals in Mbandaka (DRC): a cross-sectional analytical study

Abstract

Introduction: The integration of modern technological devices (advanced monitoring systems, digital imaging, high-frequency equipment) into the operating theatre is emerging as a key factor in ensuring the safety and optimisation of surgical procedures. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, their use remains rudimentary. This study aimed to analyse the barriers limiting the optimal use of these tools within the general referral hospitals (GRHs) of Mbandaka, Wangata and Bolenge.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted between January and March 2025. Using exhaustive sampling, 120 healthcare professionals (surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses) working in the operating theatre were included. Technical, macro-financial, individual and organisational determinants were collected via a self-administered questionnaire. Univariate and bivariate analyses (Pearson’s chi-square test) were performed.

Results: Only 18.3% of professionals routinely utilised the available technological resources. The predominant barriers were the instability of the electricity supply (90.8%), a lack of specialised training (87.5%), the absence of preventive biomedical maintenance (82.5%), the prohibitive cost of equipment (79.2%) and resistance to changes in practice (55.8%). Inferential analysis shows that the regular use of equipment is highly correlated with access to continuing professional development (p<0.001), permanent access to a biomedical technician (p=0.002) and the availability of a functional backup power source (p=0.004).

Conclusion: The deployment of technology in the operating theatres of Mbandaka is hampered by a critical triad: energy shortages, lack of training and inadequate maintenance. The deployment of appropriate local solutions (reliable power systems, targeted training and shared biomedical engineering) is essential to enhance the safety of surgical care.

Keywords: medical innovations, operating theatre, systemic barriers, surgical safety, DRC.

Received Date: April 21, 2026

Accepted Date: May 12, 2026

Published Date: June 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/701