surgical gown

1. Purpose and Importance

The primary function of a surgical gown is to maintain a sterile environment in the operating room. During surgery, the risk of infection is high due to the exposure of internal tissues and organs. Surgical gowns are designed to minimize the spread of microorganisms from the surgeon and other medical staff to the patient, and vice versa. They are a key component in preventing surgical site infections (SSIs), which can lead to serious complications.

2. Materials and Design

Surgical gowns are made from a variety of materials, depending on the level of protection required:

• Reusable Gowns: Traditionally made from tightly woven cotton or cotton-polyester blends, reusable gowns are designed to withstand multiple sterilization cycles. These gowns are often treated with water-repellent finishes to enhance their protective properties.

• Disposable Gowns: More commonly used today, disposable gowns are made from non-woven materials such as polypropylene or polyethylene. These materials are lightweight, breathable, and provide effective fluid resistance. Disposable gowns are typically used in high-risk procedures or when a higher level of protection is needed.

• Barrier Gowns: These gowns are designed for surgeries where there is a high risk of exposure to blood, bodily fluids, or other contaminants. They are made from multi-layered fabrics that combine non-woven materials with advanced coatings or laminates to provide an impermeable barrier.

The design of surgical gowns focuses on both protection and comfort. Key features include:

• Long Sleeves with Cuffs: The sleeves are usually long and fitted with elastic cuffs that can be tucked into surgical gloves to prevent exposure of the skin.

• Full-Length Coverage: Gowns are designed to cover the entire torso, extending down to the knees or below, ensuring maximum protection.

• Adjustable Ties or Velcro Closures: Gowns are secured at the back with ties or Velcro, allowing for easy donning and removal while maintaining sterility.

3. Standards and Regulations

Surgical gowns must meet stringent standards and regulations to ensure they provide adequate protection. In the United States, for example, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies surgical gowns as Class II medical devices, requiring them to meet specific performance standards for fluid resistance, tear strength, and microbial barrier effectiveness.

The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) has established a classification system for surgical gowns based on their level of protection:

• Level 1: Minimal risk, suitable for basic care or standard isolation.
• Level 2: Low risk, appropriate for procedures like blood draw or suturing.
• Level 3: Moderate risk, used in surgeries or in cases of fluid exposure.
• Level 4: High risk, designed for long, fluid-intensive surgeries where exposure to infectious diseases is a concern.

4. Usage and Disposal

Proper usage of surgical gowns is critical to their effectiveness. Healthcare professionals must follow strict protocols for donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) gowns to prevent contamination. Gowns must be put on in a sterile manner, ensuring that the exterior remains uncontaminated until the procedure begins.

After use, disposable gowns should be carefully removed and discarded in biohazard waste containers to prevent the spread of contaminants. Reusable gowns are collected for laundering and re-sterilization before being used again.

5. Innovation and Sustainability

The development of surgical gowns continues to evolve with advancements in material science and a growing emphasis on sustainability. New fabrics are being developed that offer enhanced protection while being more comfortable to wear for extended periods. Additionally, there is increasing interest in creating eco-friendly disposable gowns made from biodegradable materials or recycled content.

Hospitals and manufacturers are also exploring ways to reduce the environmental impact of reusable gowns by implementing more efficient laundering processes and using less water and energy during sterilization.

Surgical gowns are an indispensable part of infection control in medical settings, particularly in the operating room. They provide a vital barrier that protects both patients and healthcare workers from the risks of contamination and infection. With ongoing advancements in materials and a focus on sustainability, the future of surgical gowns will likely see even greater improvements in safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility.