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Effect of mobile laminar airflow units on airborne bacterial contamination during neurosurgical procedures

A-C von Vogelsang1, P Förander1, M Arvidsson2

  • 1Theme Neuro, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.

The Journal of Hospital Infection
|March 28, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mobile laminar airflow (MLAF) units significantly reduce airborne bacteria during neurosurgery, achieving ultraclean air levels. This technology is crucial for preventing surgical site infections when standard ventilation is insufficient.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Infection Control
  • Environmental Monitoring

Background:

  • Surgical site infections (SSIs) pose significant risks and costs in neurosurgery.
  • Airborne bacteria in operating rooms contribute to SSIs.
  • Maintaining ultraclean air is critical during infection-prone procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of mobile laminar airflow (MLAF) units on airborne bacterial contamination in neurosurgical operating rooms.
  • To determine if MLAF units can achieve ultraclean air standards.

Main Methods:

  • A quasi-experimental design was employed over 18 months.
  • Active air-sampling measured bacteria-carrying particles (colony-forming units: cfu) in operating rooms with and without MLAF units.
  • MLAF units were rotated monthly between operating rooms.

Main Results:

  • MLAF units significantly reduced cfu counts in the surgical site area (P < 0.001) and above the instrument table (P < 0.001).
  • The use of MLAF units was the sole significant predictor of reduced cfu count (odds ratio: 41.6).
  • Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most common bacteria detected.

Conclusions:

  • MLAF units effectively reduce airborne bacterial contamination to ultraclean levels during neurosurgery.
  • MLAF is a valuable adjunct when main operating room ventilation cannot ensure ultraclean air for high-risk procedures.
Keywords:
Colony countsLaminar airflowNeurosurgeryOperating room

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