An NBT doctor has led an innovative study into the risks of COVID-19 being spread by aerosol generating procedures.
Dr Jules Brown, Consultant Anaesthetist at NBT, working with colleagues at the University of Bristol, measured airborne particles produced during routine surgical procedures.
The findings, that inserting a breathing tube (intubation) produced barely any aerosols, indicate there could be less risk of transmission than currently thought.
This will add to the growing body of international evidence informing policy on PPE in anaesthesia and surgery.
Dr Reston Smith, Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine and Clinical Director ASCR division said:
“It has been essential to follow the NHSE advice throughout the pandemic as this has been based upon the best available evidence. The evidence base related to COVID-19 is rapidly developing and we are proud to have participated in a number of research studies that have changed practice in how we approach this disease.
“We hope that the work undertaken in theatres to assess aerosol generating procedures will play an important part in guiding any future research in this area or informing future guidance from NHSE. Within ASCR we are privileged to have so many team members who are committed to research; shaping future practice locally and nationally and ensuring that we at NBT can deliver exceptional healthcare both now and in the future.”
The study was led by Dr Jules Brown (North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK) working with Professor Jonathan Reid (Bristol Aerosol Research Centre, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol), Professor Tim Cook (Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK, and School of Medicine, University of Bristol, UK) and Professor Tony Pickering, (School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK), and colleagues.
Read the full report on the Association of Anaesthetists website.