Respiratory Protection for LASER Users

The plume produced by vaporizing tissue with a laser contains a variety of contaminants called laser-generated air pollutants (LGACs). LGACs consist of a mixture of toxic gas components, biomicroparticles, dead and living cells, and viruses. Toxic odors and thick smoke from surgical incisions and the coagulation of tissues can irritate eyes and airways, as well as cause bronchial and pulmonary congestion. Because of the potential risk of the smoke, it is advisable to appropriately remove it from the surgical site. We recommend using a smoke evacuator to remove the smoke. Suction nozzles should be placed as close as possible to the surgical site in a range of 2 cm or less. In-line filters should be used between the inlet and outlet of the surgical site. All air filtration devices should be capable of removing particles below 0.1 microns in size. The filter pack should be handled according to infection control procedures in the operating room. The laser mask can be an auxiliary protective device if it is properly worn. Some smoke inhaled under the nose wrap or over the side of the mask will not be filtered. As in electrosurgical operations, a suitable mask should be worn while smoke is present.