Contamination of irrigation solutions in an operating theatre

Sterile irrigation solution, used in open systems in a conventional orthopedic operating theatre, were examined for bacterial contamination. At the end of 13 of 21 operations (duration greater than or equal to one hour) the solution tested displayed the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis and/or diphtheroid rods and/or other species. It is concluded that irrigation by solutions, kept in open bowls during an operation, is a potential source of contamination.