Perforation rate using a single pair of orthopedic gloves vs. a double pair of gloves in obstetric cases

Our purpose was to determine the perforation rate for a single pair of orthopedic gloves vs. a double pair of regular gloves in obstetric cases. Faculty, residents, medical students, and surgical technicians were assigned randomly to use either double gloves or single orthopedic gloves. After each procedure, the gloves were examined by filling with water, occluding the cuff, and observing for streams of water. The perforation rate for the double gloves (both inner and outer glove at the same location) was 7% (12/169), similar to the 7% (12/172) for single orthopedic gloves (P < 0.9). After adjusting for procedure type there was no association between the type of gloves and perforation rate. Fifty-four percent of all perforations were not recognized intraoperatively. Of those individuals with glove perforations, 4/24 (17%) observed blood on the hand at the end of the procedure. Double-gloved users complained more frequently than single-gloved users of loss of dexterity (77/169, 46%, 95% CI 38-53%) vs. (6/172, 3.5%, 95% CI 0.7-6%) (P < 0.001) and numbness (12/169, 7%, 95% CI 3.2-11%) vs (1/172 0.6%, 95% CI 0.55-1.7%) (P < 0.005). Although the use of a single pair of orthopedic gloves is more costly than a double pair of regular gloves ($78 vs. $15 per box), it is as safe and as effective as a double pair of gloves in maintaining a sterile barrier. The primary advantage of a single pair of orthopedic gloves is that surgical dexterity is minimally compromised when compared to double gloves.