“Organizations that conduct laparoscopic or arthroscopic procedures should be aware of the potential for patient burns from the light sources associated with these scopes,” the alert said. “Burns from these types of light sources can go unnoticed by the surgical team because they typically do not produce smoke or charring, even of surgical drapes.”
Recommended actions to prevent patient burns related to these scopes include labeling light sources with a warning message, only turning on the light source after the cable is connected to the scope, and educating all team members involved in laparoscopic or arthroscopic procedures on safe handling practices.
View the full advisory here.
