Evaluation of the Rate, Location, and Morphology of Perforations in Surgical Gloves Worn in Urological Operations

Abstract

Surgical perforation or intrinsic defects within the polymer membranes of surgical gloves are responsible for an increased exposure, and consequently infection risk, to HIV and HCV or other infectious diseases for the medical healthcare professional. A prospective field study was undertaken to evaluate the number and location of glove perforations, tested by the waterfill test. The morphology of these perforations was then inspected by stereo light and scanning electron microscopy. By comparing in-use defects to simulated defects created by medical instruments in unused gloves it was possible to categorize perforations caused by intrinsic defects or extrinsic mechanical stress. In six different types of surgical gloves collected from 720 urological operations the waterfill test revealed leakage rates of 6.6 percent to 12.3 percent. Further assessment of these gloves revealed intrinsic polymer material defect rates of 0.2 percent to 3.3 percent. The in-use acquired instrumental and mechanical perforation rate ranged from 4.6 percent to 12.15 percent. Perforations were mostly located at the index finger (left > right) or the thumbs. The morphology of the intrinsic defects was visualized as either incorporated membranous air bubbles or granular areas. The simulation of defects by surgical instruments in unused gloves resulted in the production of a catalog for comparison with defects seen in used gloves. This knowledge of the location and cause of these perforations highlights the need for a better avoidance strategy and/or establishment of a schedule for routine glove change by surgeons. In addition, the intrinsic polymer film quality of gloves can be improved by a lower incidence of air bubbles together with less granular sites.