Abstract
Prompted by concerns about exposure to blood and other body substances, the possible generation of blood-containing aerosols in orthopaedic surgical practice was investigated. Common surgical power tools were operated in the laboratory to simulate the aerosols typically generated in common orthopaedic procedures. A bone saw, a Hall drill, a Shea drill, and an electrocautery were used on bone or tendon while blood was slowly dripped over the operative surface. Particle size distribution was evaluated with a low-pressure cascade impactor, and the presence of hemoglobin in inspirable particles was evaluated with the aid of a midget impinger. Particle size distribution depended on the type of power tool used, but most of the particles collected were in the respirable range. Hemoglobin was detected in all samples. Personal sampling is indicated to determine whether inspirable blood aerosols are present in the surgeon's breathing zone during an operation.