Use of a warming bath to prevent lens fogging during laparoscopy

To describe a techique of using a warming bath to prevent lens fogging during laparoscopy.

A warming machine (OR Solutions Inc., Chantilly, Virginia, model ORS-2038) containing a sterile water bath maintained at 120 degrees F is used to warm laparoscope lenses during laparoscopic surgery in order to prevent lens fogging.

We have used this technique in place of a hot water thermos or defogging solution the past 5 years during hundreds of laparoscopic cases and have noted a significant decrease in lens fogging and the need to clean the lens of water vapor condensate.

A water bath capable of maintianing hot water at a stable 120 degrees F is an effective alternative technique for maintaining warm laparoscope lenses and preventing lens fogging during laparoscopy.