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Aerosol exposure from an ultrasonically activated (Harmonic) device
1Mercer University, School of Engineering, Macon, GA, USA.
Summary
The Harmonic scalpel generates airborne particles during surgery. Using local exhaust ventilation significantly reduces exposure to these surgical aerosols, which can contain blood and tissue materials.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Technology
- Aerosol Science
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Surgical devices can generate aerosols.
- The Harmonic scalpel is an ultrasonic surgical tool.
- Understanding aerosol generation is crucial for operating room safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify aerosol particle distribution and concentration from Harmonic scalpel use.
- To assess the efficacy of local exhaust ventilation in reducing surgical aerosols.
Main Methods:
- Prospective experimental study in a simulated operating room.
- Real-time aerosol sampling during Harmonic scalpel use on tissue models.
- Analysis of particle concentration with and without local exhaust ventilation.
Main Results:
- Harmonic scalpel use significantly increased blood and tissue particle aerosols.
- Local exhaust ventilation effectively reduced the concentration of these aerosols.
- Generated aerosols were of respirable size.
Conclusions:
- The Harmonic scalpel produces bioaerosols containing respirable particles.
- Local exhaust or smoke evacuation is recommended during Harmonic scalpel use.
- This reduces exposure to blood, by-products, and potentially infectious materials.