Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026
14:54
Biobanking of Human Aqueous and Vitreous Liquid Biopsies for Molecular Analyses
Published on: September 11, 2023
Risk of blood splashes to the eye during surgery
R De Silva1, A Mall, E Panieri
1Department of Surgery and Medical Research Council Liver Research Centre, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town.
Summary
Surgical teams face a 45% risk of ocular blood splashes during procedures. This highlights a significant, often unappreciated, risk of transmitting viruses like HIV during surgery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious disease transmission
- Surgical safety protocols
- Ophthalmology and surgical risk assessment
Background:
- Emerging infectious diseases necessitate evaluating surgical transmission risks.
- Ocular blood splashes pose a potential route for transmitting viruses such as HIV and hepatitis B and C.
- Concerns exist regarding the transmission of blood-borne pathogens during surgical procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the risk of ocular blood splashes for surgical personnel.
- To assess the incidence of blood exposure to the eyes of surgeons and assistants.
- To determine the prevalence of ocular blood splashes during various surgical interventions.
Main Methods:
- Surgical teams were asked to wear protective visors attached to facemasks.
- Postoperative visor inspection for macroscopic and microscopic blood contamination.
- Data collection across multiple surgical disciplines to assess splash incidence.
Main Results:
- A substantial 45% incidence of blood splashes was observed among participants.
- A majority (59%) of surgical staff declined to wear the protective visors.
- Increased risk trends noted during major and elective surgeries; risk was similar for surgeons and assistants.
Conclusions:
- Surgical ocular blood splashes represent a significant risk to operating room personnel.
- There is a notable lack of awareness regarding ocular blood splash risks among surgeons and assistants.
- Findings underscore the need for enhanced protective measures and risk education in surgical settings.
