A technique for reducing splash exposure during pulsatile lavage

Pulsatile lavage is a frequently used method among orthopaedic traumatologists at our institution in the management of open fractures and contaminated wounds. Due to the pressure generated by the pulsatile lavage systems, splash exposure in the operating room environment becomes an unavoidable occurrence. The potential exists for a mucocutaneous exposure for either the surgeon or the operating room personnel. We have devised a method of decreasing the exposure risk to surgeons and operating room personnel during the pulsatile lavage irrigation portion of the procedure. An x-ray cassette drape is placed over the affected limb with enough clamps to create a closed system. Then small holes are created for the pulsatile lavage and the suction tubing, and the irrigation procedure is begun. This inexpensive cassette cover has proved to be a substantial advantage in our institution for decreasing mucocutaneous exposure.