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Preventing latex exposure during anaesthesia
- ASHISH RAJKUMAR, A Karmarkar, V Jain (19 September 2005)
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ASHISH RAJKUMAR, Anaesthetic trainee South Manchester University Hospital, A Karmarkar, V Jain
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Editor, Barbara J. & colleagues rightly highlight the importance of preventing latex exposure in sensitized models (1). Recent studies recognize NRL (natural rubber latex) allergy as public health concern in UK (2). We do take immaculate precautions in preventing latex exposure in allergic patients. We would specially like to mention the Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMATM), which are latex free and frequently used in patients with known allergy to latex. In hospitals LMAs are sterilized by SSD (Sterile Services Department) to be reused. Sterilization is usually not done under latex free conditions, unless specifically asked for. Before anaesthetising an allergic patient on LMA, one should make sure that LMA has been sterilized and packed in latex free conditions .Safer option would be, to use disposable LMA or a new unused latex free LMA . A. Rajkumar, A. Karmarkar, Manchester V. Jain, Yeovil E-mail: ashish_rj@yahoo.co.uk 1 Barbara J, Santais MC, Levy DA, Ruff F, Leynadier F. Prevention of latex sensitization in guinea pigs by a bacterial and viral filter used in anaesthesia. Br. J. Anaesth 2005; 95: 349-54 2 Clayton TH, Wilkinson SM. Contact dermatoses in healthcare workers: reduction in type I latex allergy in a UK centre. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2005; 30(3):221-5 Conflict of Interest:None declared |
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