Study of microbial spread when using multiple-use nasal anaesthetic spray.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infection Control
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Reusable anesthetic sprays (Xylocaine) offer a cost-effective alternative to disposable solutions (Co-phenylcaine) for rhinological procedures.
• Limited research exists on the sterility of reusable anesthetic spray systems.
• This study addresses the potential cross-infection risk associated with reusable Xylocaine anesthetic spray bottles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the risk of cross-infection to patients from reusable Xylocaine anesthetic spray bottles.
• To determine the sterility of Xylocaine anesthetic spray under simulated clinical conditions.

Main Methods:

• Two in vitro techniques were employed to assess contamination.
• Spectrophotometry analyzed anesthetic solutions for retrograde contamination using methylene blue and fluorescein dyes.
• Staphylococcus aureus cultures were used to test for bacterial contamination with concurrent nozzle changes over 36 days.

Main Results:

• Spectrophotometric analysis showed no evidence of dyed saline in anesthetic solutions.
• No Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from any of the 30 tested Xylocaine spray bottles over the 36-day trial.
• Sterility checks confirmed no contamination of Xylocaine before or after inoculation.

Conclusions:

• The use of Xylocaine spray with disposable nozzles for each patient does not pose a cross-infection risk.
• Reusable anesthetic spray systems can be considered safe for rhinological procedures when used with disposable nozzles.
• Findings support the use of Xylocaine as a safe and sterile option in ENT surgery.