The Surgimedics In-Line Wall Smoke Removal Filter (#901051) is placed within the wall suction system to protect against corrosion of the suction pipes and building contamination. Use of in-line smoke filters will greatly reduce exposure to the toxic chemicals found in surgical smoke, minimizing the risk of respiratory infections, eye irritations, nausea, and other symptoms commonly associated with the use of electrosurgical instruments.
While a smoke evacuator with a highly efficient filter is the recommended method of providing optimal protection from surgical smoke, in-line filters are effective in removing small amounts of surgical smoke created during laser and electrosurgical procedures. When a hospital decides to make use of an existing wall suction system as a method of smoke evacuation and filtration, the in-line filter must only be used for small amounts of smoke since the suction line typically generates 2 cubic feet per minute of air flow (cfm). A typical smoke evacuator moves air at a flow rate of 35 to 50 cfm.
Placement of the in-line filter is also an important consideration, especially if the surgical procedure produces fluids that will be suctioned. In this case, the in-line filter should be placed between the suction canister and the wall connection. This will prevent the filter media from getting wet, and consequently, decrease the filter's efficiency.
