Aerosol exposure from an ultrasonically activated (harmonic) device

Study Objective. To determine the distribution and concentration of aerosol particles ca used by an ultrasonic (Harmonic) scalpel during simulated surgical use. Design. Prospective experimental analysis (Canadian Task Force classification II-1). Setting, Standard operating room. Materials, Lean pork, lean beef, water and blood, and the Harmonic scalpel with ball, curved scalpel, and cutting tips. Interventions. Real-time sampling of airborne aerosols was performed over 6-second sampling periods. Measurements and Main Results, Blood and tissue particles increased significantly during use of the Harmonic scalpel. Local exhaust evacuation methods diminished these concentrations. Conclusions. The Harmonic scalpel causes formation of bioaerosols that are composed of material of respirable size. When this device is used, a local exhaust system or smoke-evacuation method should be activated to reduce exposure to blood, blood by-products, and potentially infectious materials.