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  • Title: Blood exposure risk during procedural dermatology.
    Author: Holzmann RD, Liang M, Nadiminti H, McCarthy J, Gharia M, Jones J, Neel V, Schanbacher CF.
    Journal: J Am Acad Dermatol; 2008 May; 58(5):817-25. PubMed ID: 18423259.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND: Dermatologists are at risk of body-fluid contamination during procedures. OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine the frequency of blood splash during procedural dermatology. METHODS: In all, 500 consecutive excisions were performed. Postoperatively, blood droplets on face shields and surgical gowns were counted. A survey regarding universal precautions during procedures was also conducted with members of the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS). RESULTS: Contamination from blood splashes during dermatologic procedures (Mohs micrographic surgery, excision, repair) occurred in 66.4%. Reconstruction type, anticoagulation use, wound location, and wound size correlated with a higher blood splash rate. Our survey showed that face shields and goggles are used inconsistently. LIMITATIONS: The 4 participating dermatologists do not represent all practicing dermatologists. It may be possible to generalize the survey results directed at physicians in the ACMS. CONCLUSION: Physician body-fluid contamination risk with procedural dermatology is clinically significant. Dermatologists and their assistants should wear preventive barriers during procedures to minimize the risk of viral transmission.
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