Povidone-Iodine versus antibiotic irrigation in breast implant surgery: Revival of the ideal solution

The use of povidone-iodine alone has been advocated by several authors who continued to utilize it for pocket irrigation despite the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s prohibition of 2000. However, in 2017, the FDA removed the ban against povidone-iodine use in breast augmentation. In the practice of breast augmentation, pocket irrigation with various solutions has been advocated in preventing infection and capsular contraction. However, debate continues regarding an ideal solution that is most efficacious and carries least side effects. Many studies have shown the superiority of povidone-iodine due to its broad antimicrobial spectrum, efficacy against biofilms, lack of resistance, and safe allergenic profile. Povidone-iodine is bactericidal against many multi-drug resistant organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas, Enterococcus, and Mycobacterium. In addition, povidone-iodine also has microbicidal activity against fungi, protozoa, spores, and viruses. Despite widespread clinical use and extensive testing, there have been no reports of increased tolerance or resistance to povidone-iodine in any laboratory-derived or clinical isolates to date. Meanwhile, antibiotic resistance is a growing obstacle, and virtually all Gram-negative bacteria are now resistant to bacitracin. We are pleased with the recent change in the FDA's standing on povidone-iodine use in breast implant procedures given its superior antiseptic property, excellent safety profile, lack of resistance, accessibility, and low cost.