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Role of SU-Mag dressing in postoperative orthopaedic surgeries: A prospective study
Bushu Harna1, Shivali Arya2, Tarkik Thami3
1Indus International Hospital, Derabassi, India.
Introduction:
Effective postoperative wound care is essential in orthopaedic surgeries to minimise complications such as infection, swelling, and compartment syndrome. Postoperative oedema can delay healing and restrict mobility. SU-Mag ointment, known for its hygroscopic and anti-inflammatory properties, has been used in conditions like thrombophlebitis and intravenous infiltration, but its role in orthopaedic postoperative care is not well studied. This study evaluates the effectiveness of SU-Mag dressing in reducing postoperative oedema following limb fracture fixation surgeries.
Methodology:
A 12-month prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre involving 233 patients undergoing upper or lower limb fracture fixation. Patients with open wounds, vascular disorders, immunosuppression, or hypersensitivity to SU-Mag components were excluded. Post-surgery, SU-Mag ointment was applied circumferentially around, but not on, the incision site, followed by sterile gauze, cotton padding, and a crepe bandage. The dressing was kept in place for 72 h unless an early change was needed.
Results:
Among 233 patients (mean age 43.8 ± 13.2 years), 68.6% had no swelling and 31.7% had only mild oedema. Mean oedema score was 0.32 ± 0.12, with an average limb circumference difference of 0.42 ± 0.11 cm (p < 0.001). No major complications were noted.
Conclusion:
SU-Mag dressing effectively reduced postoperative oedema and discomfort without adverse effects.
Insights
SU-Mag dressing effectively reduces swelling and discomfort after limb fracture surgery. This study shows significant oedema reduction in patients undergoing fracture fixation, with no major complications observed.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Wound Care
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Effective postoperative wound care is crucial in orthopaedic surgery to prevent complications like infection and swelling.
- Postoperative oedema can impede healing and limit patient mobility.
- SU-Mag ointment's properties suggest potential benefits, but its use in orthopaedic postoperative care requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of SU-Mag dressing in mitigating postoperative oedema following limb fracture fixation.
- To assess the safety and impact of SU-Mag on patient comfort.
Main Methods:
- A 12-month prospective observational study included 233 patients undergoing limb fracture fixation.
- SU-Mag ointment was applied around the incision site, covered with sterile gauze and padding, for 72 hours.
- Exclusion criteria included open wounds, vascular disorders, immunosuppression, or hypersensitivity.
Main Results:
- The study involved 233 patients with a mean age of 43.8 years.
- 68.6% of patients experienced no swelling, and 31.7% had mild oedema post-surgery.
- A statistically significant reduction in oedema was observed (mean oedema score 0.32 ± 0.12; limb circumference difference 0.42 ± 0.11 cm, p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- SU-Mag dressing demonstrated effectiveness in reducing postoperative oedema after limb fracture fixation.
- The treatment was well-tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported.
