August 2007
Allegations regarding the hazards of a thin film of organic fluid on surgical instruments
Our Challenge
- We were retained to assess potential human health risks associated with a case involving surgical equipment contaminated by hydraulic fluid
- Hydraulic fluid was inadvertently introduced into sterilization cycle prompting analysis
Our Approach
- Systematically reviewed and developed understanding of each medical claim
- Conducted a weight-of-the-evidence analysis of the hazards posed by hydraulic fluid.
- Created a comprehensive program to fill data gaps.
- Developed and implemented public outreach program.
- Performed literature review and assessed overall state-of-the-science.
Our Findings
- After a toxicological review it was determined that there was no acute or chronic health hazard associated with the contaminated surgical equipment.