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Airborne particulates in the OR environment
C E Edmiston1, S Sinski, G R Seabrook
1Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA.
Abstract:
Intraoperative sampling of airborne particulates is rarely performed in the OR environment because of technical difficulties associated with sampling methodologies and because of the common belief that airborne contamination is infrequently associated with surgical site infections (SSIs). In this study, investigators recovered non-viable (i.e., lint) and viable (i.e., microorganisms) particulates during vascular surgery using a personal cascade impactor sampling device. The predominant nonviable particulates recovered during intraoperative sampling were wood pulp fibers from disposable gowns and drapes. Several potential nosocomial pathogens (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and other drug-resistant isolates frequently were recovered from an area adjacent to the surgical field. The widespread presence of airborne particulates during surgery suggests that further studies are warranted to assess the role these particles may play in the development of SSIs or in dissemination of nosocomial pathogens within the OR and hospital environment.
Insights
Airborne particulates, including bacteria and lint from surgical drapes, were detected during vascular surgery. This highlights potential risks for surgical site infections (SSIs) and pathogen spread in operating rooms.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infection Control
- Surgical Safety
Background:
- Intraoperative airborne contamination is often overlooked due to technical challenges and a belief in its low association with surgical site infections (SSIs).
- Understanding airborne particulate presence is crucial for preventing nosocomial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and types of airborne particulates, both viable and non-viable, during intraoperative vascular surgery.
- To assess the potential role of airborne particles in SSI development and pathogen dissemination within the operating room (OR).
Main Methods:
- Utilized a personal cascade impactor sampling device for intraoperative airborne particulate collection during vascular surgery.
- Identified and characterized both non-viable (e.g., fibers) and viable (e.g., microorganisms) particulates recovered from the OR environment.
Main Results:
- Recovered significant amounts of non-viable particulates, primarily wood pulp fibers from disposable gowns and drapes.
- Detected viable particulates, including nosocomial pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, near the surgical field.
- Observed widespread presence of airborne particles during the surgical procedures.
Conclusions:
- Airborne particulates are prevalent during intraoperative periods, challenging previous assumptions.
- Disposable surgical materials contribute significantly to airborne contamination.
- Further research is essential to determine the direct link between intraoperative airborne particles and SSIs or pathogen transmission.