By Vangie Dennis

The 2010 EPRI Institute estimated the number of operating room fires occurring annually in the United States are 550-650 which includes about 115-135 airway fires. Airway fires continue to be the most prevalent cause of operating room fire-induced serious injuries and death.  The surgical team should understand ignition sources, fuels and oxidizers present during head and neck surgery and employ the preventative measures to decrease the potential for this type of surgical fire.  This presentation will review legal cases of airway fires with the primary objective and focus on prevention. Continue reading →