<p>Surgical smoke, generated by energy-based devices like electrocautery, lasers, and ultrasonic knives, is a significant yet often overlooked hazard in operating rooms. Comprising viable pathogens, chemical residues, and approximately 95% water vapor, it can effectively carry infectious agents. The health risks associated with surgical smoke include respiratory issues, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and potential carcinogenic effects, raising concerns for operating room personnel. Despite these risks, many staff members do not consistently use protective measures, highlighting a critical gap in safety practices. This review aims to assess the current evidence on the risk of viral infections transmitted through surgical smoke and promote improved safety protocols. A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and other databases until September 2024 to identify articles and case reports associating viral infections in operating room staff with surgical plumes. The research study utilized the terms “viral transmission,” surgical smoke, infection, HPV, SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. The review reveals the presence of HPV, SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis B, and HCV in surgical smoke produced by high-energy devices like CO2 lasers. While effective PPE and ventilation reduce transmission risks, the potential for viral transmission remains. Ongoing evaluation of surgical techniques and enhanced protective measures are essential to safeguard healthcare workers and minimize infection risks. Surgical smoke contains viable viruses like HPV, SARS-CoV-2, and hepatitis B, particularly from high-energy tools, posing risks to healthcare workers. Documented infections emphasize the need for stringent safety protocols and consistent PPE use. Ongoing research is vital to enhance protective measures and safeguard both healthcare professionals and patients.</p>

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Surgical Smoke and Its Associated Hazards: A Review on Viral Transmission and Health Implications for Surgical Personnel

  • Himanshu Agrawal,
  • Radhika Jain,
  • Usaid Ahmad

摘要

Surgical smoke, generated by energy-based devices like electrocautery, lasers, and ultrasonic knives, is a significant yet often overlooked hazard in operating rooms. Comprising viable pathogens, chemical residues, and approximately 95% water vapor, it can effectively carry infectious agents. The health risks associated with surgical smoke include respiratory issues, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and potential carcinogenic effects, raising concerns for operating room personnel. Despite these risks, many staff members do not consistently use protective measures, highlighting a critical gap in safety practices. This review aims to assess the current evidence on the risk of viral infections transmitted through surgical smoke and promote improved safety protocols. A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and other databases until September 2024 to identify articles and case reports associating viral infections in operating room staff with surgical plumes. The research study utilized the terms “viral transmission,” surgical smoke, infection, HPV, SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. The review reveals the presence of HPV, SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis B, and HCV in surgical smoke produced by high-energy devices like CO2 lasers. While effective PPE and ventilation reduce transmission risks, the potential for viral transmission remains. Ongoing evaluation of surgical techniques and enhanced protective measures are essential to safeguard healthcare workers and minimize infection risks. Surgical smoke contains viable viruses like HPV, SARS-CoV-2, and hepatitis B, particularly from high-energy tools, posing risks to healthcare workers. Documented infections emphasize the need for stringent safety protocols and consistent PPE use. Ongoing research is vital to enhance protective measures and safeguard both healthcare professionals and patients.