Aerosol Generation During Otologic Surgery
Objective
To assess whether aerosol generation occurs during otologic surgery, to define which instruments are aerosol generating, and to identify factors that enhance safety in protection against airborne pathogens, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.
Study Design
An observational prospective study on aerosol measurements during otologic operations recorded between August and December 2020.
Setting
Aerosol generation was measured with an Optical Particle Sizer as part of otologic operations with anesthesia. Particles with a size range of 0.3 to 10 μm were quantified. Aerosol generation was measured during otologic operations to analyze aerosols during drilling in transcanal and transmastoid operations and when using the following instruments: bipolar electrocautery, laser, suction, and cold instruments. Coughing is known to produce significant concentration of aerosols and is commonly used as a reference for high-risk aerosol generation. Thus, the operating room background concentration and coughing were chosen as reference values.
Patients
Thirteen otologic operations were included. The average drilling time per surgery was 27.00 minutes (range, 2.00–71.80 min).
Intervention
Different rotation speeds during drilling and other instruments were used.
Main Outcome Measures
Aerosol concentrations during operations were recorded and compared with background and cough aerosol concentrations.
Results
Total aeros...
Source: Otology and Neurotology - Category: ENT & OMF Tags: Middle Ear And Mastoid Disease Source Type: research
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