Microbial Contamination and Cleaning Efficacy of Lead Aprons Used by Orthopaedic Surgeons in the Operating Room

Background: Radiation Personal Protective Equipment (RPPE) is crucial for shielding against radiation exposure in medical settings, particularly in orthopedics. Typically stored on open racks outside operating rooms, these items are shared among users without designated ownership. Objective: This study aims to evaluate contamination rates and levels in lead aprons used in orthopedic surgery, as well as assess the efficacy of cleaning procedures in reducing microbial growth. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at major tertiary hospital in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Twenty aprons out of thirty in the hospital’s orthopedic operating rooms were sampled over two months, both before and after cleaning. Microbiological analysis was performed at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University’s microbiology laboratory. Results: Out of 120 swabs, 62 tested positive for microorganisms including micrococcus, Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas Stutzeri, yeast, Haemophilus spp, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, and Klebsiella. Pre-cleaning contamination was significantly reduced from 37% to 25% post-cleaning (P = 0.023). Highest contamination levels were found inside the aprons (P < 0.001). Conclusion: While cleaning processes reduced contamination levels, detection of concerning organisms post-cleaning highlights the need for enhanced cleaning protocols in orthopedic surgery settings to mitigate contamination risks effectively.