Use of “TOUL MOBILE OPERIO” to prevent the bacterial infection in transplant recipients

Approximately 30.000 solid organ transplants (SOTs) are performed annually in the United States and 20.000 in the European Union. Bloodstream infection (BSI) remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality after solid-organ transplantation. The risk of infection in transplant recipients is determined by kind of donor, surgical wound, their immunodeficiency and genetics alterations compounded by chronic diseases at the time of transplantation, the intensity of exposure to potential pathogens (epidemiologic exposure), and the combined effect of all factors that contribute to a patient’s susceptibility to infection (net state of immunosuppression). For these reasons, recognition of infection is more difficult in transplant recipients than in individuals with normal immune functions. The use of new technologies can help the physician reducing the incidence of bacterial infection. In this way, the TOUL MOBILE OPERIO®, sterile laminar flow system, could dramatically reduce the risk of infection. The Toul system provides a flow of ultraclean air, for operating rooms, is directed on to the surgical site so as to protect against the risk of bacterial contamination. The unit can be transported and installed in any operating room in only a few minutes without interfering with the existing ventilation system. Various studies have confirmed that this technology significantly reduces bacterial contamination in critical areas of the operating room. This has led to a dramatic reduction in the number of operating room-acquired infections after surgery. The surgeon and his team are able to rely on the sterile condition of the instruments and the operating environment even during long procedures. This research project is focused to provide expanded access to Toul Mobile Operio for reducing surgical site infection and bacteremia incidence in liver and kidney transplant recipients.