Surgical glove tears frequent in orthopedic trauma surgery: 4 things to know

Surgical glove perforation often goes undetected during orthopedic trauma surgery, according to a study in The Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma.

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Here are four things to know:

1. In the study, four investigators performed six high-risk maneuvers in a simulated laboratory setting. Alternative techniques were also performed for most maneuvers.

2. Investigators were able to identify only 14.3 percent of perforations.

3. Here are the perforation rates:

  • Cleaning drill bit flutes by hand: 85 percent
  • Catching a glove along the guide wire while passing a cannulated drill: 50 percent
  • Catching a glove around a rotating drill shaft: 40 percent
  • Palpating the end of a flexible nail cut with a wire cutter: 35 percent
  • Blind digital fracture reduction: 20 percent
  • Directly visualizing the reduction: 15 percent
  • Inserting screws while stabilizing the threads with fingers: 15 percent
  • Palpating the end of a flexible nail cut with a nail-specific tool: 5 percent

4. Study authors conclude orthopedic surgeons should consider modifying or using alternative techniques when performing certain maneuvers.

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