Surgical rubber gloves impervious to methylmethacrylate monomer

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Conventional surgical gloves allow permeation of methylmethacrylate monomer (MMM).
• MMM is a component of acrylic bone cement.
• Permeation can lead to sensitization and adverse health effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the permeability of butyl rubber gloves to MMM.
• To identify protective materials for individuals handling MMM.

Main Methods:

• An in vitro technique was employed to test glove permeability.
• Butyl rubber gloves of 0.48 mm thickness were specifically assessed.

Main Results:

• Butyl rubber gloves demonstrated impermeability to MMM.
• Standard surgical gloves were found to be permeable to MMM.

Conclusions:

• Butyl rubber gloves offer a barrier against MMM exposure.
• Recommendation for using butyl rubber gloves for MMM handling to prevent sensitization.
• Individuals with known MMM sensitization should utilize butyl rubber gloves.