Computer-automated digital asset management using integrated tray and asset identifiers

Abstract

A system and method identify and track surgical assets on surgical trays using a combination of human-readable primary asset identification objects and unique tray identifiers. The human-readable primary asset identification objects, such as laser-engraved metal stickers, are affixed to the trays and feature short, easily-readable asset identifiers such as numbers or letters. Similarly, secondary asset identification objects may provide additional identifiers that, when combined with primary asset identifiers, enhance the specificity of asset identification. These identifiers are minimal in information content, facilitating quick and error-free human readability. Each tray is associated with a unique tray identification object that is machine-readable, containing a unique identifier for the tray. The (primary or primary and secondary) asset identifiers on the human-readable objects, when combined with the tray's unique identifier, create a globally unique identifier for each asset. This unique identifier system allows for efficient tracking and management of surgical assets without the need for repeatedly reading the tray identifier for each asset on the tray.