Prevention of neoplastic seeding during surgery: an investigation into OR. Protocols and practice in Canada

A review in the Medical Post (Wysong, 1996) discussed the merit of glove and instrument changes during cancer surgery with a view to reducing the incidence of neoplastic seeding. This review stimulated the author to investigate current practices in this regard adopted by surgical staff across Canada. The author believes that a valid comparison exists between practices utilized in infection control and those which can be used to limit the problem of neoplastic seeding at the time of surgery. Results indicated a considerable interest in adopting a protocol utilizing glove and instrument changes at critical points during surgery, such as reconstruction and closure.