The Fumigation of the Operation Theatre (OT) is a process used in hospitals to disinfect and sterilize the environment, eliminating microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. This procedure is crucial and helps to maintain a sterile surgical environment and prevent infections.
Different Steps for Fumigation of an Operation Theatre
Important Preparations Before Fumigation
• Remove all Items: it is important to remove all the important machines like anesthesia machines, Ventilators, and any other electric equipment that may be damaged due to the Fumigation
• Close All Openings: Close and seal all the Doors, Windows, and air vents to prevent leakage of fumigations.
• Turn Off Air Conditioning: To make sure that the fumigants are spreading in all the areas, switch off the HVAC system.
Selection of Fumigation
Formaldehyde Fumigation ( Traditional Method)
Chemical Used: Formalin (30-40% Formaldehyde Solution)
Concentration: 40 ml of formalin per 1000 cubic feet + 20 g of potassium permanganate.
Method: Place potassium permanganate in a heat resistant container and pour formalin over it to generate fumes.
Hydrogen Peroxide Fumigation ( Safer and Modern Method)
Chemical Used: Hydrogen Peroxide (30-35%) or vaporised hydrogen peroxide (VHP)
Method: Automated VHP Generates a small fine mist which is highly effective and leaves no toxic residues.
Glutaraldehyde or Peracetic Acid Fogging ( Alternate Method)
This method is used in some hospitals as an alternative method for the formaldehyde
Fumigation Process
Calculate the Volume: First measure the Operation theatres volume to determine the required amount of fumigant.
Fumigant Release: Use the proper fumigation machine (Procare OT Fumigator) or you can manually mix the chemicals ( E.g. Formalin and Potassium Permanganate)
Exposure Time: You can leave the fumigant to act for 6-12 hours ( The time may vary and depends on the method you use)
Neutralization: To Neutralize formaldehyde use ammonia solution ( 1:10 Ration). And for Hydrogen Peroxide aerate naturally or you can use catalytic converters.
Post Fumigation clearance
Ventilation: Open all the sealed doors and ventilators to remove all the residual gases.
Cleaning: Clean all the surfaces with 70% alcohol or disinfectants.
Air Quality Check: Check all microbial load before allowing surgeries.
Alternative: Ultraviolet (UV-C) Disinfection
UV-C Light (254 nm): This method can be used as a quick chemical-free method for terminal sterilization
Exposure Time: 30-60 Minutes
Best Used With: Routine fumigation for enhanced sterility