Corrugated Rubber Drains Versus Closed Suction Drain in Reducing Superficial Surgical Site Infection in Laparotomy Wounds

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) remain a substantial problem for patients. Surgery for perforation peritonitis is associated with the highest rate of infective complications, especially surgical site infections because there is contamination of the operative field with microorganisms from endogenous sources. Subcutaneous drains are commonly placed in the operative setting to prevent hematoma or abscess formation in surgical wounds. In contrast to open drains, closed suction drains establish a pressure gradient between the wound and the external environment.

Objectives: To evaluate the role of wound drainage in preventing surgical site infections (SSI) in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy and draw comparison between the efficacy of open corrugated rubber drainage and closed suction drainage.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 50 patients admitted under Department of Surgery, Government Medical College, Jammu, India, between January and July of 2020, who underwent emergency laparotomy for various indications, within 24 hours of admission. All investigations for requisite anaesthesia were conducted on emergency basis. Patients received either corrugated rubber drain (group A), closed suction drain (group B) or no drain (group C) for wound drainage. Patients were followed in the post operative period for development of wound infection.

Results: Mean age was 39.2 years with median age of 35 years. Male to female ratio was 1.94:1. 8 out of 19 patients from group A developed wound dehiscence, while only 1 out of 20 patients in group B developed wound dehiscence. 6 out of 11 patients in group C developed wound dehiscence. The difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Placement of subcutaneous drains in emergency laparotomy wounds is associated with lower incidence of wound infection. Closed suction drains appear to be more effective than open corrugated drains in reducing the risk of SSIs.

International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 08 No. 01 Jan’24 Page: 75-78