Objective To enhance the accuracy and efficiency of surgical instruments and supplies before the surgery by using the electronic information system. Methods A module regarding preoperative preparation of the surgical instruments and supplies was added in the electronic information system. The module included surgical instruments required in different surgeries, special instruments for different professors and different types of consumables, then data in the module was shared. The accurate rate of instrument preparation, preparation time, the number of taking instruments and supplies out of the operating room by circulating nurses, the number of returned consumables, the rate of missing charge of consumables and satisfaction of medical staff were compared before and after using the new electronic information system in 116 operations respectively. Results The accurate rate of instrument preparation and satisfaction of medical staff were significantly higher, whereas the rest evaluation parameters were significantly lower after using the new system (P<0.01 for all). Conclusion Management of surgical instruments and supplies using electronic information technology before the surgery, can improve work efficiency and quality in operating room.