Effectiveness of a radiofrequency detection system as an adjunct to manual counting protocols for tracking surgical sponges: a prospective trial of 2,285 patients.

Background: Despite rigorous manual counting protocols and the classification of retained surgical items (RSIs) as potential "never events," RSIs continue to occur in approximately 1 per 1,000 to 18,000 operations. This study's goals were to evaluate the incorporation of a radiofrequency detection system (RFDS) into existing laparotomy sponge- and Raytec-counting protocols for the detection of RSIs and define associated risk factors.

Study Design: All patients undergoing surgery at the University of North Carolina Hospitals from September 2009 to August 2010 were enrolled consecutively.