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Contamination risk of the surgical team through ROBODOC's high-speed cutter
M Nogler1, C Wimmer, C Lass-Flörl
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Innsbruck, Austria.
Abstract:
During cutting of the femoral cavity in the ROBODOC procedure, an aerosol cloud of irrigation fluid, blood, and tissue debris was seen. This cloud potentially is contaminated with bacterial and viral vectors, which is an infection risk for the surgical team. A flat and a ball cutter were tested in four standard situations macroscopically with a colored solution. In a second experiment, the cutter was exposed to a fluid contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, and bacterial room contamination was detected using standard cultures. The aerosol cloud was seen in a 6 x 3.6-m area. Extension and concentration varied, depending on the irrigation situation. ROBODOC's high-speed cutter produces an aerosol cloud in an area in which all members of the surgical team are affected. Sufficient protection is necessary for everyone in the operating room.
Insights
The ROBODOC surgical system creates an aerosol cloud during femoral cavity cutting, posing an infection risk to the surgical team. This highlights the need for enhanced protective measures in operating rooms during robotic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Robotic surgery
- Surgical safety
- Infection control
Background:
- The ROBODOC procedure involves cutting the femoral cavity.
- An aerosol cloud containing irrigation fluid, blood, and tissue debris is generated.
- This aerosol may harbor infectious agents, posing a risk to surgical staff.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the formation and extent of aerosol clouds during ROBODOC femoral cavity cutting.
- To assess the potential for bacterial contamination within the generated aerosol.
- To emphasize the need for protective measures for the surgical team.
Main Methods:
- Testing a flat and a ball cutter in simulated surgical conditions with colored solution.
- Exposing the cutter to Staphylococcus aureus-contaminated fluid.
- Monitoring bacterial contamination in the operating room environment using standard cultures.
Main Results:
- An aerosol cloud was observed spreading across a 6 x 3.6-meter area.
- The extent and concentration of the aerosol varied based on irrigation.
- Bacterial contamination was detected in the room environment after exposure to contaminated fluid.
Conclusions:
- RO বিশুদ্ধOC's high-speed cutter generates a significant aerosol cloud affecting the entire surgical team.
- The aerosol poses a potential infection risk due to possible contamination with bacterial and viral vectors.
- Adequate personal protective equipment and environmental controls are essential for all operating room personnel.