Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Author Spotlight: Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies
Published on: March 17, 2023
[Splash basins are contaminated even during operations in a laminar air flow environment]
Mikkel Christensen1, Mikkel Sundstrup, Helle Raagaard Larsen
1Ortopædkirurgisk Afdeling, Hillerød -Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, 3400 Hillerød. jjmikkel@hotmail.com.
Abstract:
Few studies have investigated the potential contamination of splash basins and they have shown very divergent results: contamination ranging from 2.13% to 74% has been reported. This study set out to examine if splash basins used in a laminar air flow (LAF) environment during elective knee and hip arthroplasty constitute an unnecessary risk. Of the 49 cases sampled two cultures were positive (4%; 95% confidence interval = 0.49-13.9). We conclude that splash basins do get contaminated even in an LAF environment. Further studies with larger populations are needed to validate our findings.
Related Concept Videos
Laminar Flow
Laminar Flow: Problem Solving
Laminar and Turbulent Flow
Steady, Laminar Flow in Circular Tubes
Turbulent Flow
Steady, Laminar Flow Between Parallel Plates

