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Scalpel safety in the operative setting: A systematic review

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dc.contributor.authorWatt, A.
dc.contributor.authorPatkin, M.
dc.contributor.authorSinnott, M.
dc.contributor.authorBlack, R.
dc.contributor.authorMaddern, G.
dc.date.issued2010
dc.description.abstract<h4>Background</h4>The complex environment of the operative setting provides multiple opportunities for health care workers to sustain scalpel injuries; scalpels are the second most frequent source of sharps injuries in this setting. Little evidence has been published detailing the effectiveness of proposed safety procedures and devices.<h4>Methods</h4>A systematic search strategy was used to identify relevant studies. Studies were included based on the application of a predetermined protocol, an independent assessment by 2 reviewers, and a consensus decision. Nineteen articles formed the evidence base for this review.<h4>Results</h4>Little high-level evidence was available. The results of studies reporting on 5 different devices/procedures were identified: the use of cut-resistant gloves/liners decreased the number of glove perforations in comparison with double latex gloves alone but lessened the wearer's dexterity and tactile sensation; the benefit derived from the use of the hands-free passing technique seemed equivocal; "sharpless surgery" was found to be feasible; a single-handed blade remover prevented at least as many injuries as a safety scalpel; and some shoe materials provided superior foot protection.<h4>Conclusion</h4>The lack of available evidence highlights the need for the generation of a methodologically rigorous, clinically relevant, and statistically valid body of primary research in this area to support appropriate and effective safety interventions.
dc.description.statementofresponsibilityAmber M. Watt, Michael Patkin, Michael J. Sinnott, Robert J. Black and Guy J. Maddern
dc.identifier.citationSurgery, 2010; 147(1):98-106
dc.identifier.doi10.1016/j.surg.2009.08.001
dc.identifier.issn0039-6060
dc.identifier.issn1532-7361
dc.identifier.orcidMaddern, G. [0000-0003-2064-181X]
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/2440/56909
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherMosby Inc
dc.rights© 2010 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.
dc.source.urihttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.surg.2009.08.001
dc.subjectHumans
dc.subjectProtective Devices
dc.subjectSurgical Instruments
dc.subjectAccidents, Occupational
dc.subjectOperating Rooms
dc.titleScalpel safety in the operative setting: A systematic review
dc.typeJournal article
pubs.publication-statusPublished

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