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Reducing Aerosolized Particles and Droplet Spread in Endoscopic Sinus Surgery during COVID ‐19
Author(s) -
Jones Huw A. S.,
Salib Rami J.,
Harries Philip G.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.29065
Subject(s) - aerosolization , covid-19 , endoscopic sinus surgery , medicine , drill , biomedical engineering , surgery , materials science , anesthesia , inhalation , pathology , disease , infectious disease (medical specialty) , metallurgy
Objectives The presence of high SARS‐Cov‐2 viral loads in the upper airway, including the potential for aerosolized transmission of viral particles, has generated significant concern amongst otolaryngologists worldwide, particularly those performing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). We evaluated a simple negative‐pressure mask technique to reduce viral exposure. Methods Two models simulating respiratory droplets >5–10 μm and fine respiratory nuclei <5 μm using fluorescein dye and wood smoke, respectively, were utilized in a fixed cadaveric study in a controlled environment. Using ultraviolet light, fluorescein droplet spread was assessed during simulated ESS with powered microdebrider and powered drilling. Wood smoke ejection was used to evaluate fine particulate escape from a negative‐pressure mask using digital subtraction image processing. Results The use of a negative‐pressure mask technique resulted in 98% reduction in the fine particulate aerosol simulation and eliminated larger respiratory droplet spread during simulated ESS, including during external drill activation. Conclusions As global ear, nose & throat (ENT) services resume routine elective operating, we demonstrate the potential use of a simple negative‐pressure mask technique to reduce the risk of viral exposure for the operator and theatre staff during ESS. Level of Evidence 5 Laryngoscope , 131:956–960, 2021