Vacuum drainage of groin wounds after vascular surgery: a controlled trial

A pilot study of 100 consecutive groin wounds after vascular surgery demonstrated lymph leaks in 12 per cent. Lymph leak was significantly associated with wound infection and with prolongation of in-patient stay. A controlled trial was therefore instituted to assess the influence of vacuum drainage in groin wound healing. One hundred and twenty-seven wounds were randomized to drainage (n = 65) or no drainage (n = 62) and the wounds were examined 'blind' by independent observers. No difference in the incidence of lymph leakage or wound infection was noted between the two groups. The routine use of suction drainage for groin wounds in vascular surgery is unnecessary.