Microbial Colonization of Laparoscopic Gas Delivery Systems: A Qualitative Analysis

OBJECTIVE: Laparoscopic procedures utilize a pneumoperitoneum to distend and separate the abdominal wall from the intra-abdominal structures. Carbon dioxide is commonly used for this purpose, although this study is inclusive of any gas used for abdominal distention. The gas is delivered from cylinders through a gas insufflation delivery system. The purpose of this study is to determine if laparoscopic gas delivery systems composed of gas cylinders and insufflators used for laparoscopy have microbes present. METHODS: Gas delivery systems were evaluated for the presence of microbial growth using standard techniques. External connection sites, gas cylinders and the internal conduit tubing of insufflators were cultured. Fifty two (52) insufflators and sixty (60) gas cylinders were evaluated. RESULTS: Twelve (12) of the sixty cylinders (20%) and fifty four (54) of the sixty insufflators (92.3%) were culture positive. The organisms identified are significant and a varied spectrum. CONCLUSIONS: Recognition that gas cylinders, insufflation attachments and internal components of insufflators quantitatively contain microbes is demonstrated. Reduction of microbial exposure from insufflation apparatus is achieved by cleansing external ports and use of a 0.3 micron filter for abdominal pneumoperitoneum.