A surgeon using an electrosurgical unit, a common source of<unk> .<unk>  is the by-product produced by electrosurgery, laser tissue ablation, or other<unk>  techniques.<unk> , as a health threat to those exposed to it, has become a growing concern. Studies have demonstrated, depending on several factors, to possibly contain carcinogens, mutagens, irritant chemicals, live viruses and bacteria, and viable malignant cells. These all pose a theoretical and demonstrable risk of harming patients or operating room personnel upon exposure. Other names for<unk>  are cautery smoke, plume, diathermy plume, or, sometimes, aerosols produced during surgery, vapor contaminants, or air contaminants. Electrosurgery and laser ablation are the most common sources of<unk> . Heat generated during surgery causes cell membranes to heat and rupture, releasing cellular debris alongside water vapor.<unk>  is composed of 95% water with the remaining 5% contains byproducts of combustion and cellular debris. The negative health effects due to exposure of<unk>  is attributed to what is contained in the 5%. The size of particles within the plume of smoke varies depending on the device that generated it. On average electrosurgery produces particles that are .07 μm, while laser ablation generates larger particles that are .31 μm on average. Particles smaller than 2 micrometers are able to reach the alveoli within the lower respiratory tract and, if 0.1 μm or smaller, can enter systemic circulation. The amount of cellular debris in a smoke plume changes with the tissue being cauterized. The liver has been shown to generate the largest amount of particles. Other than type of tissue and<unk>  device, operating room airflow can also affect smoke exposure.
Surgical smoke
Biomedical waste
Cigarette Burns
Stab wound
Bodywork 
Toxic waste
Tobacco smoke
Cigarette