A modern surgical smoke evacuator for the challenges of today’s operating room

Abstract

Background: In the current conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that surgical plume be effectively removed from both open and laparoscopic procedures, especially when energized devices are being utilized. This study evaluated a new Megadyne Smoke Evacuator, to establish its performance in removing smoke, while improving visibility at the surgical site and lessening the risk of staff exposure to the components of surgical smoke, such as chemicals, particulates, viruses and bacteria. Methods: The smoke evacuator was evaluated by nurses and surgeons in both open and laparoscopic simulated procedures. Nurses were asked to setup and operate the smoke evacuator, and surgeons performed a variety of electrosurgery procedures in an animate porcine model. Both groups were then asked to evaluate the device via a questionnaire. Results: Over 90% of the nurses (n=18) agreed that the Megadyne Smoke Evacuator was easy to set up, understand the settings and change the filter. Surgeons agreed that the smoke evacuator operated effectively in open (94%, 17/18) and laparoscopic (100%, 16/16) procedures. Conclusion: Given the risks inherent in performing surgery today, it is more important than ever to use an effective method of smoke evacuation. With an ULPA filter capable of blocking particles as small as 20 nm with high efficiency, the Megadyne Smoke Evacuator lowers the risk of exposure to small viruses, cellular debris, bacteria and other particles. In addition to having a range of flow rates amenable to open procedures, the device can be used in all steps of laparoscopy, including the process of desufflation. *Correspondence to: Jeffrey W Clymer, Ethicon Inc., 4545 Creek Rd, Cincinnati OH 45424, USA, E-mail: jclymer@its.jnj.com