ABSTRACT

Surgical site infections, which are the primary of nosocomial infections, continue to be an issue as they result in increased rates of morbidity, healthcare costs and patient dissatisfaction The aim of this study was to reveal the role of airborne particle contamination of surgical instruments in surgical site infection.

In this prospective study, an evaluation was made of a total of 25 simple and complex spinal surgery cases performed over a one month period. In order to demonstrate that there were no contaminants in the surgical set preoperatively, 2 instruments were randomly selected and culture samples were taken from a 1 cm2 surface area of each. The instruments were not used in surgery and one was covered to remain sterile while the other was exposed to airborne particles on the nurse’s desk. At the end of the operation, culture samples were taken from all instruments.

The samples taken preoperatively from the airborne particle exposed and sterile covered instruments showed no bacterial growth postoperatively. No surgical site infections developed in any of the patients.

When appropriate precautions are taken, it is possible to avoid contamination of surgical instruments with airborne particles. Therefore, great attention must be given to appropriate behavior regarding contamination in the operating room, activity must be kept to a minimum, and doors must be controlled.