Aerosol generation during routine rhinologic surgeries and in-office procedures

Abstract

Objective: Cadaveric simulations have shown endonasal drilling and cautery generate aerosols, which is a significant concern for otolaryngologists during the COVID-19 era. This study quantifies aerosol generation during routine rhinologic surgeries and in-office procedures in live patients. Methods: Aerosols ranging from 0.30 to 10.0 μm were measured in real-time using an optical particle sizer during surgeries and in-office procedures. Various mask conditions were tested during rigid nasal endoscopy (RNE) and postoperative debridement (POD). Results: Higher aerosol concentrations (AC) ranging from 2.69 to 10.0 μm were measured during RNE (n = 9) with no mask vs two mask conditions (P =.002 and P =.017). Mean AC (0.30-10.0 μm) were significantly higher during POD (n = 9) for no mask vs a mask covering the patient's mouth condition (mean difference = 0.16 ± 0.03 particles/cm3, 95% CI 0.10-0.22, P