Aerosol Generation During Bone-Sawing Procedures in Veterinary Autopsies.

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Occupational Health
• Aerosol Science

Background:

• Bone-sawing is common in human and veterinary autopsies.
• These procedures can generate infectious aerosols, posing health risks to personnel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate aerosol generation during bone-sawing procedures.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of containment and personal protective equipment.

Main Methods:

• Tested 5 different bone saws (electrical band saw, grinder, oscillating, reciprocating, hand saw).
• Measured aerosol particle generation and spread.
• Assessed effectiveness of a ventilated sawing cabin and powered air-purifying respirators.

Main Results:

• The electrical bone band saw generated the most aerosolized particles (<5 µm), rapidly spreading throughout the autopsy hall.
• Other saws also generated concerning particle levels, especially the hand saw.
• A ventilated cabin contained aerosols but increased operator concentration; respirators provided protection.

Conclusions:

• All bone-sawing procedures in pathology generate hazardous aerosols.
• Proper ventilation systems and personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential to reduce infection risk for autopsy personnel.