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. 2007 Jan-Feb;77(1-2):20-3.
doi: 10.1111/j.1445-2197.2006.03827.x.

Composition of volatile organic compounds in diathermy plume as detected by selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry

Andrew R Moot  1 , Katherine M Ledingham, Paul F Wilson, Senti T Senthilmohan, David R Lewis, Justin Roake, Randall Allardyce
Affiliations

Composition of volatile organic compounds in diathermy plume as detected by selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry

Andrew R Moot et al. ANZ J Surg. 2007 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Background: There is some evidence that surgical plume may pose a risk to health professionals, but the risks posed by volatile organic compounds have not been thoroughly investigated.

Methods: The composition of volatile organic compounds in diathermy plume produced during surgery was analysed by selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry.

Results: Hydrogen cyanide (3-51 parts per million), acetylene (2-8 parts per million), and 1,3-butadiene (0.15-0.69 parts per million) were identified in the plume.

Conclusion: Although there is no evidence of adverse health effects from the volatile organic compound in diathermy plume, the evidence that it is safe to breathe this plume is lacking. Therefore, we would recommend the use of smoke evacuators where practical.

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Comment in

  • Surgery to die for?
    Maddern G. Maddern G. ANZ J Surg. 2007 Jan-Feb;77(1-2):1. doi: 10.1111/j.1445-2197.2006.03987.x. ANZ J Surg. 2007. PMID: 17295808 No abstract available.

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