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Transfer of bacteria associated with cryotherapy
1Department of Dermatology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Ichilov Hospital, Israel.
Cutis
|April 1, 1993
Summary
This study investigated bacterial transmission during carbon dioxide cryosurgery. Findings indicate that bacteria from patient skin can contaminate dry ice, posing a potential infection risk during the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Procedures
Background:
- Cryosurgery using dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) is a dermatological treatment.
- Concerns exist regarding the potential for microbial contamination during such procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if living bacteria are transmitted during carbon dioxide cryosurgery.
- To assess the risk of infection associated with this dermatological technique.
Main Methods:
- Cultures were obtained from the surface of dry ice blocks before and after patient treatment over ten consecutive days.
- Sterile dry ice blocks were used for each procedure.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus epidermidis was isolated from six of the ten dry ice blocks post-procedure.
- This demonstrates contamination of the dry ice during the cryosurgery process.
Conclusions:
- Living bacteria can be transmitted from patient skin to dry ice during cryosurgery.
- The findings highlight a potential risk of infection for patients and healthcare personnel, necessitating further consideration of safety protocols.