Laminar air flow as used in hospital operating rooms is somewhat specialized when compared to environmental air systems normally found in hospitals, not only for its presumed ability to reduce infection rates, but additionally the selection process for this system is different. Often, it is the orthopedic surgeons on a hospital;s staff who advocate and promote the use of laminar air flow systems. Their goal in this endeavor is reduced infection rates.

Investigation reveals that the medical profession is divided aver the use and value of laminar air flow in operating rooms as a viable means of infection control. Although the selection and installation of these systems proliferated in both existing and new hospitals during the late 60's and early 70's, their popularity never described a smoothly ascending trend curve. In fact, ,they may presently be near the bottom of their popularity. For these and other reasons, a re-evaluation of the use of laminar air flow in surgeries appears in order.