TP10.1.12Personal Protective Equipment impairs pulmonary gas exchange causing systemic hypercapnia-hypoxaemia and cerebral hyperperfusion-induced cephalalgia

Abstract Aims To what extent Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) impacts integrated cardiopulmonary-cerebrovascular function has not been examined. The hypothesis tested was that PPE adversely influences pulmonary gas exchange, resulting in systemic hypercapnic-hypoxaemia and cerebral hyperperfusion-induced cephalalgia. Methods Eight male Higher Surgical Trainees (aged 33 ± 2y) participated a repeated measures crossover study, completing two-hour laparoscopic simulation tasks, on two separate occasions (separate days), once standard operating attire, full (including FFP3 mask). Results Following hours of simulation, (compared with attire) associated increased FICO2 (7.9% (±0.8%) vs. 7.1% (±1.2%); p = 0.025), decreased FIO2 (16.0% (±0.4%) 16.6% (±0.5%); 0.011), peripheral O2 saturation (95% (± 1%) 98% (±1%); 0.001). Headaches were reported by three participants (Chi2 3.692, 0.055), Middle Cerebral Artery flow velocity; 82 (±4) cm/s, compared 63 (±9) cm/s the remaining five (p 0.008). Skin temperature 1.3 °C during 0.001), an equal mean insensible fluid loss 300ml under both conditions 0.049). Conclusions Collectively, these findings highlight complications PPE-induced impairment exchange. countermeasures should be designed to prevent risk healthcare staff patients alike.