Evaluation of surgical gloves for perforations following oral and maxillofacial surgery

H D Barber1, L G Upton

  • 1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, USA.

Oral Surgery, Oral Diagnosis : OSD
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Surgical glove perforations are common in oral and maxillofacial surgery, potentially leading to contamination. Achieving a completely sterile environment with sharp instruments may be impossible.

Area of Science:

  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Infection Control
  • Medical Device Safety

Background:

  • Sterile surgical gloves are critical barriers in preventing surgical site infections.
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery involves sharp instruments, posing a risk to glove integrity.
  • Previous research has explored glove perforation rates in various surgical specialties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the incidence of perforations in two types of sterile surgical gloves.
  • To assess the risk of contamination associated with glove perforations during oral and maxillofacial procedures.

Main Methods:

  • Two types of sterile surgical gloves were tested.
  • Gloves were used during oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures.
  • Perforations were identified and recorded.

Main Results:

  • Perforation of surgical gloves occurred frequently.
  • The findings suggest that contamination of the surgeon and patient is a significant risk.
  • Complete barrier protection may not be achievable with current glove technology in this setting.

Conclusions:

  • Surgical glove perforation is a notable concern in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
  • The risk of contamination necessitates careful consideration of barrier protection strategies.
  • Further research into improved glove materials and surgical techniques is warranted.

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