The Smoke Factor: Things you Should Know

Abstract

Surgical smoke is a regular hazard that the majority of perioperative personnel are exposed to. Many staff are unaware of the risks of surgical smoke and many more may take it for granted that a surgical facemask provides enough protection. This article provides detail on the composition of surgical smoke and highlights the potential dangers that theatre staff face and what could be done to protect them. It will demonstrate the potential harm for the patient with particular reference to laparoscopic procedures as these are becoming more favourable in general and gynaecological specialities and are of particular interest to the author.