[The use of disposable draping materials in the operating room and its effect on the postoperative wound infection...

In a consecutive study we analyzed the influence of gown and drape material on the postoperative wound infection rate. 1033 operations were included in this study. In 354 operations conventional cotton gowns and drapes were used, while in 679 operations, a disposable gown and drape system was utilized. The use of disposable gown and drape material reduced the postoperative wound infection rate in our surgical department. The greatest reduction -43% - was seen in clean wounds. Within this group gallbladder operations showed a reduction of 59% and hernia operations showed a reduction of 46%. A slight reduction was also seen in clean-contaminated and contaminated wounds, while in dirty wounds there was no difference. However, due to the relatively low numbers involved the results were not of statistical significance. An analysis of the costs over a 12-month period showed a reduction of 7.5% when the disposable gown and drape system was used. With respect to ease of handling and wear the disposable material was preferred by the operating-staff, both doctors and nurses.