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Effect of surgical mask position on bacterial contamination of the operative field
S A Berger1, M Kramer, H Nagar
1Department of Microbiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Israel.
Abstract:
The influence of surgical mask usage on bacterial contamination of the operative field was studied during 30 cardiac catheterization procedures. Mask position was varied during each procedure according to a predesigned random table. The number of bacterial colonies recoverable when no mask was worn was significantly higher than that detected when a full mask was worn (P < 0.002). Shedding of Staphylococcus epidermidis was greater when no mask was worn (mean 5.2 colonies 10 min-1) than shedding with full mask (mean 2.7 colonies 10 min-1; P < 0.004). Although mask placement below the nose was associated with higher mean colony counts than that above the nose, these differences were not statistically significant.
Insights
Surgical masks significantly reduce bacterial contamination in the operative field during cardiac catheterization. Wearing a mask, even below the nose, lowers bacterial shedding, enhancing patient safety in sterile procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Infectious Disease Control
- Surgical Hygiene
Background:
- Bacterial contamination of the operative field poses a risk during invasive procedures.
- Surgical masks are standard personal protective equipment, but their precise impact on bacterial shedding in cardiac catheterization is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the effect of surgical mask usage on bacterial contamination of the operative field.
- To assess the impact of mask position on bacterial shedding during cardiac catheterization.
Main Methods:
- Thirty cardiac catheterization procedures were monitored.
- Mask position was randomized during each procedure.
- Bacterial colony counts on the operative field were measured with and without mask usage.
Main Results:
- Significantly lower bacterial colony counts were observed when a surgical mask was worn compared to no mask (P < 0.002).
- Shedding of Staphylococcus epidermidis was substantially reduced with full mask usage (mean 2.7 colonies/10 min) versus no mask (mean 5.2 colonies/10 min; P < 0.004).
- Mask placement below the nose showed a trend towards higher colony counts but was not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Surgical mask use is effective in reducing bacterial contamination during cardiac catheterization.
- Consistent and proper mask usage is crucial for minimizing bacterial shedding and maintaining aseptic technique.
- Further research may explore optimal mask fit and coverage for maximum efficacy.