From the Guidelines
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that airborne stool is present in the air during a colonoscopy, and the risk of aerosolization of fecal matter is minimal due to thorough bowel preparation, suction, and proper ventilation systems. Before the procedure, patients undergo thorough bowel preparation using laxatives and dietary restrictions to clear the colon of stool [ 1 ]. Additionally, the colonoscopy procedure itself uses suction to remove any remaining liquid stool or debris. The procedure is performed in a controlled medical environment with proper ventilation systems. Medical staff also follow standard precautions including wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and eye protection.
While there can be small amounts of aerosolized biological material during medical procedures, the risk of airborne stool particles during colonoscopy is minimal due to these preventive measures. The closed nature of the procedure, where the colonoscope is inserted into the body with minimal exposure to the external environment, further reduces any potential for aerosolization of fecal matter. Some studies suggest that there may be a risk of aerosolization during insertion and removal of instruments through the biopsy channel [ 1 ], but this risk is considered low.
Key points to consider:
- Thorough bowel preparation reduces the amount of stool present in the colon
- Suction during the procedure removes any remaining liquid stool or debris
- Proper ventilation systems in the medical environment minimize the risk of aerosolization
- Standard precautions, including personal protective equipment, protect medical staff from potential risks
- The closed nature of the procedure reduces the potential for aerosolization of fecal matter.
From the Research
Airborne Stool During Colonoscopy
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest the presence of airborne stool in the air during a colonoscopy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, studies have investigated the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during colonoscopy to prevent infection transmission, which may imply the potential for airborne contaminants 3, 5.
- The use of carbon dioxide or air insufflation during colonoscopy has been studied, with findings on patient comfort and nursing resources, but no mention of airborne stool 4, 6.
- One study discussed the extent of infectious SARS-CoV-2 aerosolisation as a result of colonoscopy, highlighting the importance of PPE, but did not specifically address airborne stool 5.