Timing of C-Arm Drape Contamination

摘要

Background: Surgical site infection remains a concern in orthopedic surgery, and contamination of C-arm covers is a potentially modifiable risk factor. Methods: A single-cohort study was conducted using 30 consecutive patients undergoing operative fracture fixation. Cultures were obtained from the C-arm cover after initial draping and every 20 min thereafter. The total number of persons in the operating room (person-hours/h of study time) and the number of door openings were recorded. The C-arm position changes and the time to contamination were monitored. Results: The median time from the start of the operation to contamination was 20 min. There was a 17% contamination rate on initial draping, 50% at 20 min, 57% at 40 min, and 80% by 80 min. The C-arms in five cases were not contaminated during the surgery. Time to contamination correlated significantly with lateral position changes (correlation [r] = 0.64; p = 0.003) but was not related to C-arm position changes (r = 0.22; p = 0.34), number of door openings (r = 0.20; p = 0.39), or person-hours/h (r = 0.04; p = 0.85). Conclusions: Contamination of the C-arm drape occurs often and early during surgery for orthopedic fractures. We recommend minimal contact with the C-arm to avoid contamination of the surgical field.