Investigation of methods regarding the effectiveness of ventilation strategies in an operating room on the removal of airborne germs using tracer particles

Abstract

In this study contaminant distribution in an operating room is evaluated experimentally to be able to compare different ventilation concepts afterwards. Low-turbulent unidirectional ventilation (LAF) is used in this study. Heated dummies are positioned around the operating table, which release tracer particles that surrogate airborne germs and measured in critical areas for bacteria spread. Measurement results are evaluated and compared in terms of the degree of protection as well as the local air quality index. It is shown that realistic arrangements limit the usage of the degree of protection. Also, low local air quality indices show recirculation areas appearing at the operating table.