Preliminary cadaver study of Surgical Humidification (HumiGard™) demonstrating reduced intra-wound particle counts...

Infection remains a clinically significant problem in orthopaedic surgery, particularly in joint arthroplasty. Current infection prevention protocols aim to provide an aseptic operating room environment. An intervention to further reduce airborne particles local to the surgical site may be valuable to protect against infection. Surgical Humidification (F&P HumiGard™) is a novel device designed to provide a warm and hydrated wound environment and reduce particles entering the orthopaedic surgical site.

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the ability of HumiGard to deflect airborne particles during a dynamic simulation of total hip arthroplasty, involving movement of tools, surgeon's hands, and tissue.

A cadaveric simulation of total hip arthroplasty was performed using the direct anterior approach. HumiGard was positioned at the surgical site prior to incision. Airborne particles (0.3-10 μm) were continuously measured at the wound using an optical particle sizer. Particle counts under standard care control and HumiGard conditions were compared using non-parametric statistical analysis.

HumiGard reduced median airborne particle counts by 61% compared with control conditions (P<0.0001), excluding bone saw use. Particle levels dropped immediately when HumiGard was activated and rose when deactivated, indicating active deflection of exogenous particles.

This pilot study demonstrates that HumiGard reduced airborne particle counts within the wound during a dynamic cadaveric model of total hip replacement. These findings suggest HumiGard may be a valuable addition to current infection prevention protocols to help minimize airborne particle contamination and reduce the risk of infection.