The hazards of diathermy plume. Part 1. The literature search.

Abstract

Laser and electrocautery devices used during surgery produce smoky emissions that may contain vapours and particulate aerosols, which can have a chemical and biological impact on those exposed. A group of theatre staff and specialist nurses at Rotherham District General Hospital got together to draw up a risk assessment into the possible occupational exposure of theatre staff, with a view to eliminating or controlling these hazards as far as possible.