This short article explores the issues surrounding the use of certain specialist items used during some neurosurgical procedures. It discusses the results of a benchmarking exercise that sought to investigate how these items are accounted for since there appear to be no nationally agreed guidelines for perioperative practice. The returns from the exercise suggest that, while practice for patties seems to be consistent, there is variation between neurosurgical centres in the use of other items. It is hoped that this work may stimulate discourse and that guidance can be produced to assist perioperative practitioners and enhance safe practice for patients.
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