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Povidone-iodine related burns.
O Nahlieli1, A M Baruchin, D Levi
1Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery Units, Barzilai Medical Centre, Ashkelon, Israel.
Burns : Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
|February 28, 2001
Summary
Chemical skin preparation burns from povidone-iodine (betadine) are rare but can occur. These burns result from the solution pooling under pressure, causing irritation and maceration, similar to decubitus ulcers.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Surgical Safety
Background:
- Skin preparation using chemical agents is standard practice before surgical procedures.
- Burns from skin preparation agents are uncommon but can lead to significant patient harm.
Observation:
- Povidone-iodine (betadine) solutions, when not allowed to dry, can pool in dependent areas.
- Pooling under pressure, such as in the lithotomic or orthopedic positions, exacerbates skin irritation and maceration.
Findings:
- The mechanism involves a combination of chemical irritation, maceration, and pressure, leading to skin burns or superficial ulcers.
- These burns are analogous to acute accelerated decubitus ulcers, with multiple factors compounding skin damage.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of proper skin preparation protocols to prevent iatrogenic injuries.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding solution drying times and patient positioning to avoid chemical burns.