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An overview of the studies on microbial air contamination in operating theatres and related issues over time: a
Roberto Albertini1, Alessia Coluccia2, Maria Eugenia Colucci3
1Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Unit of Medicina Interna di Continuità, University Hospital of Parma, Italy. roberto.albertini@unipr.it.
Abstract:
Background and aim Surgical site infection (SSI) is a major complication following surgery associated with increased morbidity and mortality, as well as increased health and not health costs. A variety of factors affect airborne contamination in operating theatres (OT). Following the Medical Research Council study showing a correlation between microbial air contamination and SSI incidence in prosthetic joint surgery ultraclean OTs have been recommended for this type of surgery, while OTs supplied by turbulent airflow plants are recommended for other types of surgery. The aim of this study was to illustrate the studies on this topic. Methods Scopus was considered for articles published until January 2023 on OTs and air contamination in article title or abstract or keywords. Many issues were deepened: "microbial", "bacterial", "fungi", "viruses", "surgical site/wound infection", "monitoring/sampling", "air changes", "behaviour", "door openings", "particles", turbulent flow", "unidirectional flow". Results Total papers published were 907 and 249 papers faced monitoring/sampling. A total of 313 papers investigated airborne bacterial contamination and 63 papers investigated fungal air contamination. There were 218 papers that have evaluated particle contamination in OTs. Many other issues were deepened. Conclusions This study shows a picture of the studies on biological air contamination in OTs and related issues over time. We think that the results of our study will provide a useful tool to increase awareness towards a better sharing of aims, approaches, and results, above all in the interest of the patients, but also of the health services of the different countries. (www.actabiomedica.it).
Insights
This review highlights studies on airborne contamination in operating theatres (OTs). Understanding microbial and particle levels is crucial for preventing surgical site infections (SSIs) and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Healthcare-associated infections
- Surgical safety
Background:
- Surgical site infections (SSIs) are significant complications impacting patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
- Airborne contamination in operating theatres (OTs) is a critical factor influencing SSI rates.
- Different airflow systems (ultraclean vs. turbulent) are recommended based on surgical procedures to mitigate infection risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of existing research on airborne contamination in operating theatres.
- To analyze studies focusing on microbial, particle, and airflow dynamics within OTs.
- To synthesize current knowledge on factors affecting air quality in surgical environments.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted on Scopus for articles published up to January 2023.
- Keywords included operating theatres (OTs), air contamination, microbial agents (bacteria, fungi, viruses), particle contamination, and airflow dynamics.
- Studies investigating monitoring, sampling, air changes, and behavioral factors were also included.
Main Results:
- A total of 907 papers were identified, with 249 focusing on monitoring/sampling methods.
- 313 papers investigated airborne bacterial contamination, and 63 examined fungal contamination.
- 218 papers evaluated particle contamination in OTs, alongside other related factors.
Conclusions:
- This review offers a broad perspective on research concerning biological air contamination in OTs.
- Findings can enhance awareness and facilitate better collaboration on strategies to reduce airborne contamination.
- Improved understanding and sharing of research are vital for patient safety and healthcare efficiency.
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