Prophylactic Absorbable Antibiotic Beads in Groin Reconstruction Following Vascular Procedures

Postsurgical complications following vascular procedures requiring a groin incision are common due to factors such as preexisting comorbidities and are complicated by the frequent use of synthetic grafts. While negative pressure wound therapy and muscle flap coverage are interventions that have been shown to improve vascular graft salvage rates in the groin, use of absorbable antibiotic beads (AABs) may offer another useful adjunct to reduce adverse outcomes. This study evaluated the outcomes in patients receiving AABs during groin reconstruction following vascular procedures at a large tertiary-care hospital.

A retrospective review was performed of all patients undergoing vascular surgery in the groin followed by reconstruction by the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery service from January 2018 to March 2024. Patients were grouped by whether prophylactic AABs were placed during groin reconstruction.

Among 63 cases, 20 received AABs. Bivariate analysis showed significantly lower reoperation rates in the AAB group (P = 0.046). Multivariable analysis revealed AAB was associated with a significantly lower odds of composite major complications (P = 0.015), 30-day readmissions (P = 0.012), and reoperation (P = 0.003) following groin reconstruction. AAB use was not a significant predictor for length of stay, composite minor complications, postoperative packed red blood cells transfusions, long-term wound care, or surgical site infection.

Use of AABs during groin reconstruction was associated with improved outcomes, including significantly lower rates of reoperations, readmission, and major complications suggesting a potential benefit in managing complex groin wounds.