Operating Room Protocols and Infection Control

In the modern day’s Oral and Maxillofacial surgical practice, complex surgical and aesthetical procedures are being carried out associated with an increased risk of infectious complications. Therefore, to ensure better outcomes of the surgical procedures, it is absolutely necessary that appropriate measures must be taken to decrease the incidence of associated infections. The practices to be carried out for infection control include proper scrubbing procedures for both patient and the operator, specific protocols to be followed by the operating personnel at the time of procedures, proper handling of the instruments and maintaining an aseptic environment throughout the procedure. The main aim of this chapter is to provide information on the preoperative, operative and post-operative protocols that should be adhered to improve the safety of the patients undergoing surgical procedures.