Optimizing Parameters for Smoke Evacuation

Abstract

Background: Current literature lacks recommendations regarding the ideal organization of the smoke evacuation system to minimize inhalation of surgical smoke.

Objective: This study determines optimal parameters of the smoke evacuation system with respect to the surgical field.

Materials and methods: This study was conducted in an outpatient surgical facility at a tertiary care center. After 30 seconds of continuous electrocautery of tissue, particulate measurements were recorded using the TSI DustTrak Aerosol Monitor 8520 (>2.5 μm particles) and the TSI P-Trak Ultrafine Particle Counter 8525 (<1 μm particles) while changing the angle and distance of the smoke evacuation system.

Results: Particulate matter measurements were lower when suction angle was at 45° than at 90°. For both small-sized and large-sized particles, the lowest particulate matter was recorded when the evacuator was maintained at a 45° angle, 2 to 4 inches away from the cauterizing procedure. Particulate matters dramatically increased after increasing the distance of the smoke evacuator beyond 8 inches from the procedural site.

Conclusion: In an effort to reduce smoke inhalation, the authors recommend that smoke evacuation should be placed at a 45° suction angle, no further than 8 inches away from the surgical site, while preserving the surgeon's field of vision.