Variations of Air-Borne Bacteria in a Department of Oral Surgery

Abstract

The variation in the number of airborne bacteria before and after the reconstruction of an oral surgery department was determined in the policlinic and the operating theatre by means of sedimentation plates with bloodagar. The sedimentation plates were kept in analogous locations in both parts of the study and exposed for determined periods during the day. Along with the reconstruction, the hygienic standard was improved by introduction of several changes, such as obligatory use of oral/nasal mask, separated treatment units in the policlinic, decreased movement during surgical procedures, a better isolation of the operating theatre and overpressure ventilation with filtrated air. The results showed a generally significant variation (p<0.01) in the bacterial level correlated with the rate of activity in both parts of the study. Further results showed a very clear decrease in the number of bacteria for both localities. The percentage reduction was found to be 65 per cent in the operating theatre and 50 per cent in the policlinic (mean values).