VANCOMYCIN- AND CHLORHEXIDINE DIGLUCONATE-IMPREGNATED DRESSING FOR THE PREVENTION OF ORTHOPEDIC SURGICAL SITE...

This study introduces a novel approach by proposing a dressing impregnated with vancomycin and chlorhexidine for postoperative care, specifically targeting patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries.

The research design involved a pilot study with a randomized control group, aiming to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vancomycin with a chlorhexidine dressing (Evidence Level I). Participants received vancomycin and CHG impregnated dressing or non-impregnated dressing during the period from March 2023 to October 2023 in trauma-related surgery in the lower limbs. The sample size was based on convenience, considering the pilot study; even though it was randomized and blinded, this study was not a clinical trial.

A total of 12 patients used an impregnated dressing, and nine used the same dressing without impregnation. Despite limitations, including the small sample size and single-center study location, our findings demonstrate the safety of the impregnated dressing in trauma surgeries, indicating potential applicability in broader surgical contexts.

In conclusion, this study contributes to the discourse on preventive strategies for SSIs, presenting a pioneering approach with the use of vancomycin and chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. Future research endeavors, incorporating larger-scale studies and addressing study limitations, are crucial for advancing the understanding and implementation of effective postoperative care strategies. Level of Evidence I; Case-control study.