Airborne Particulates in the OR Environment

Abstract

ABSTRACTIntraoperative sampling of airborne particulates is rarely performed in teh OR environment because of technical difficulties associated with sampling methodologies and because of the common belief that airborne contamination is infrequently associated with surgical site infections (SSIs). In this study, investigators recovered nonviable (ie, lint) and viable (ie, microorganisms) particulates during vascular surgery using a personal cascade impactor sampling device. The predominant nonviable particulates recovered during intraoperative sampling were wood pulp fibers from disposable gowns and drapes. Several potential nosocomial pathogens (eg, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and other drug‐resistant isolates frequently were recovered from an area adjacent to the surgical field. The widespread presence of airborne particulates during surgery suggests that further studies are warranted to assess the role these particles may play in the development of SSIs or in dissemination of nosocomial pathogens within the OR and hospital environment. AORN J 69 (June 1999) 1169‐1183.