Differences Between Medical Masks and Surgical Masks
Apr 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
The primary differences between medical masks and surgical masks are as follows: Surgical masks are made of non-woven fabric, provide a better fit and seal when worn, and offer superior protection against splashes of blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. They are widely used in clinical settings—such as operating rooms, care of immunocompromised patients, and cavity surgeries—and effectively reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Due to the ongoing global pandemic of SARS-CoV-2, all citizens are required to wear masks when going outdoors to protect their personal safety. What is the difference between medical masks and surgical masks?
Difference Between Medical Masks and Surgical Masks
The primary distinction lies in performance and application: surgical masks are made of non-woven fabric and offer superior fit and seal around the face. They provide enhanced protection against splashes of blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials, and are widely used in clinical settings—such as operating rooms, care for immunocompromised patients, and cavity surgeries—to effectively reduce the risk of respiratory infection and safeguard both healthcare providers and patients during routine clinical practice.
Medical protective masks: These consist of three layers—an inner layer of non-woven fabric, a middle layer of polypropylene melt-blown fiber material (the primary filtration layer), and an outer layer also composed of polypropylene melt-blown material. Offering higher protection efficacy than surgical masks, they feature an improved facial seal and are classified as self-filtering, air-purifying respirators. They are intended for use by healthcare personnel during diagnosis and treatment of patients with airborne or droplet-transmitted respiratory infections. These masks filter airborne particles and provide effective barrier protection against droplets, blood, bodily fluids, and secretions.
Standard medical masks: Made of non-woven fabric, these masks exhibit lower filtration efficiency for particles and bacteria compared with surgical masks and medical protective masks. Their primary function is to block nasal and oral secretions and they are suitable for single-use in general healthcare environments. We hope this explanation proves helpful!
