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Microplastics in perioperative practice: an emerging concern for surgical safety
Summary
This review highlights the emerging concern of microplastics in surgical environments, noting that single-use plastic equipment in operating rooms generates microplastic particles that can contaminate surgical sites and patient tissues, calling for greater awareness of MP exposure risks in perioperative settings.
Feces, lungs, placentas, and surgical sites are just a few of the human organs and environments where microplastics (MPs) are found. These are present in organs exposed to the outside world through body openings, but information is still lacking. Widespread MP exposure results from growing plastic usage in indoor air, food, and water worldwide. The use of single-use plastic equipment and the resulting production of MPs in tight areas and medical environments – especially operating rooms – present special challenges. With increased MP concentrations seen in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, new research connects MPs to biological impacts like inflammation and oxidative stress, underscoring possible health hazards. Plastic waste remains a significant environmental issue despite plastics being essential for maintaining medical sterility and preventing infections. This review highlights the need for more research on clinical consequences and methods to reduce MP exposure in healthcare settings.