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The Journal of Laryngology & Otology (2001), 115: 455-456 Cambridge University Press
Copyright © Royal Society of Medicine Press Limited 2001
doi:10.1258/0022215011908153
Published online by Cambridge University Press 08 Mar 2006


(RF) Otorhinolaryngology

Blood splash and tonsillectomy: an underestimated hazard to the otolaryngologist

Ivan J.Keogh F.R.C.S.I. a1, Stephen W.Hone F.R.C.S.I. a1, Michael Colreavey F.R.C.S.I. a1 and Michael Walsh F.R.C.S.I. a1
a1 Department of Otolaryngology/HNS, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont Road, Dublin 9, Ireland.

Article author query
keogh j   [PubMed] [Google Scholar] 
hone w   [PubMed] [Google Scholar] 

Abstract

Mucocutaneous exposure is an important route of transmission of hepatitis viruses and HIV in healthcare workers. Few data exist in the literature on the risk of transconjunctival exposure during many surgical procedures. We investigated the use of eye protection during tonsillectomy and measured the incidence of potential eye splash. No otolaryngologist surveyed routinely used eye protection during tonsillectomy. Splash events occurred in 23 out of 103 tonsillectomies. In all cases the surgeon was unaware of the splash. Splash events were significantly more likely to occur during adult tonsillectomy (p < 0.05). We strongly advise the routine use of eye protection during tonsillectomy.

(Published Online March 8 2006)


Key Words: Tonsillectomy; Infection; Control.

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