A new report shows that over half of perioperative practitioners have not received any education on the hazards of exposure to surgical smoke plume, while 72% of perioperative practitioners have experienced symptoms associated with exposure to surgical smoke plume. The AfPP are among those calling for action.
Surgical smoke plume is produced when energy generating devices (lasers, diathermy, ultrasonic tools, etc.) are used in surgery to cut, coagulate, or vaporise tissue. The smoke emitted contains carbon, aerosolised blood and blood borne pathogens, bacteria, tissue fragments, and a range of volatile organic compounds and gases.
Evidence shows that viruses – including HIV, HPV, HepB – are present in smoke plume and can be transmitted. In addition, while there is not yet conclusive evidence of the presence of SARS CoV-2, it is assumed that it is likely to be present, as particulate size is the same as previously identified viruses, and transmission is airborne.
If not effectively captured, filtered, and removed, all personnel in the room are at risk of exposure to the hazards of smoke plume. This can result in short- and longterm illnesses, including acute and chronic respiratory illness, ocular irritation, viral illnesses, and even cancer.
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