Use of a Warming Bath to Prevent Lens Fogging during Laparoscopy

Abstract

Purpose:

To describe a techique of using a warming bath to prevent lens fogging during laparoscopy.

Materials and Methods:

A warming machine (OR Solutions Inc., Chantilly, Virginia, model ORS-2038) containing a sterile water bath maintained at 120°F is used to warm laparoscope lenses during laparoscopic surgery in order to prevent lens fogging.

Results:

We have used this technique in place of a hot water thermos or defogging solution the past 5 years during hundreds of laparoscopic cases and have noted a significant decrease in lens fogging and the need to clean the lens of water vapor condensate.

Conclusions:

A water bath capable of maintianing hot water at a stable 120°F is an effective alternative technique for maintaining warm laparoscope lenses and preventing lens fogging during laparoscopy.