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Ultraviolet radiation and air contamination during total hip replacement
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Ultraviolet (UV) light significantly reduced airborne bacteria in operating rooms during hip surgery. This method showed no adverse effects, suggesting it can enhance air cleanliness, especially with advanced ventilation systems.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infection Control
- Surgical Hygiene
Background:
- Operating room contamination poses a risk for surgical site infections.
- Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is a potential method for microbial reduction in healthcare environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the bacteriological effectiveness of UV radiation in reducing airborne microorganisms during total hip arthroplasty.
- To assess any adverse effects of UV irradiation on patients and operating room staff.
Main Methods:
- An open, randomized study involving 30 total hip procedures.
- Volumetric air-sampling was used to quantify colony-forming units (cfu m-3) before and during UV irradiation.
- Assessment of patient and staff for any adverse effects.
Main Results:
- UV irradiation significantly reduced airborne colony-forming units (P < 0.001) near the wound and in the periphery.
- No adverse effects were observed in patients or staff exposed to UV irradiation.
- The combination of UV light and zonal ventilation achieved 'ultra clean' air conditions.
Conclusions:
- UV irradiation is an effective adjunct for reducing bacterial load in operating rooms, particularly when used with advanced ventilation.
- UV irradiation alone may not be sufficient to achieve 'ultra clean' air in conventionally ventilated operating rooms.
- UV irradiation is a safe method for enhancing operating room sterility.