In healthcare, protecting every breath is crucial. Surgical smoke, produced by the use of energy-based surgical devices such as lasers and electrosurgical units, poses significant health risks to everyone in the operating room (OR). In this edition of our newsletter, we will dive into the impact of surgical smoke on OR staff and patients and how MAXAIR Systems can enhance safety in such high-risk environments.
The Impact of Surgical Smoke in the OR
Although a clinical concern since the ‘70s, surgical smoke has become a recent “hot topic” in ORs around the world and the question has come to the forefront of the discussion, “How dangerous is it?”
Surgical smoke is a hazardous byproduct that contains over 80 toxic chemicals, including known carcinogens like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde. These chemicals can cause eye irritation, respiratory issues, and even long-term health problems such as cancer. Inhalation of surgical smoke has been associated with respiratory and ocular issues among OR staff, and there is evidence that viruses and bacteria can be transmitted via the smoke, posing an infection risk. ¹ ⁻ ³
Key Facts:
- Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, including coughing, wheezing, and asthma-like symptoms.
- Infection Risk: Surgical smoke can carry viable bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of infection transmission.
- Carcinogenic Risk: Some studies suggest that exposure to surgical smoke may increase the risk of cancer among OR staff and patients.
- Chemical Hazards: Contains toxic chemicals such as benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene, which are harmful to health.
- Visibility and Procedure Delays: Smoke can reduce visibility of the surgical site and potentially delay procedures.
The need for better personal protective equipment (PPE) is clear. Ensuring effective surgical smoke evacuation and utilizing advanced respiratory protection are critical steps in safeguarding the health of everyone in the OR. Do you agree?
How MAXAIR Systems Can Help
MAXAIR Systems offers advanced solutions to mitigate the risks associated with surgical smoke. Our CAPR (Controlled Air Purifying Respirator) systems provide an elevated level of respiratory protection, designed to filter out airborne particulate contaminants like surgical smoke. While MAXAIR systems are not a complete solution for surgical smoke, they significantly enhance protection in high-risk environments.
Key Features of MAXAIR Systems:
- XP High Efficiency Filters: 99.99% filter efficiency provides clean air for the wearer.
- High APF (Assigned Protection Factor): APF of 1000 ensures the highest OSHA system protection levels of loose-fitting PAPRs.
- Optional Nuisance OV Filter Cartridge: The 2166-10 XP N-OV filter’s activated charcoal filters certain nuisance1 level organic vapors.
- Comfort and Functionality: Lightweight design ensures comfort during long shifts without compromising protection.
- Easy Integration: Seamlessly integrates with existing protocols and is easy to assemble and maintain.
By adopting MAXAIR CAPR systems, healthcare facilities can enhance the safety and well-being of their staff and patients, ensuring a healthier working environment.
For more information on how MAXAIR Systems can help protect your OR, contact us today.
Stay tuned for our next edition, where we will discuss innovative PPE solutions and their impact on healthcare safety.
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Notes:
1 Organic vapor concentrations that do not exceed OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL).
References:
- Surgical Smoke Inhalation: Dangerous Consequences for the Surgical Team: https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2020/06/18/surgical-smoke/
- Clearing the air in operating rooms: https://www.hfmmagazine.com/articles/4890-clearing-the-air-in-operating-rooms
- The Hazards of Surgical Smoke in the OR: https://www.steris.com/healthcare/knowledge-center/surgical-equipment/hazards-of-smoke-in-the-operating-room