Implementation of a Manual Vacuum Drainage System for Odontogenic Space Infections: Technical Note

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Odontogenic space infections necessitate surgical incision and drainage for source control.
• Passive drainage is standard, but manual closed vacuum systems aim to improve exudate evacuation and wound care.
• This study assesses a manual vacuum drainage system in a general hospital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and feasibility of a manual vacuum drainage system for odontogenic infections.
• To evaluate the system's safety and effectiveness in a general hospital setting.
• To identify operational challenges and potential improvements.

Main Methods:

• A 4.8 mm perforated silicone tube connected to a manual accordion-shaped reservoir was used.
• A hermetic seal was achieved post-debridement using a purse-string suture and adhesive film.
• Negative pressure was generated by manually compressing the reservoir.

Main Results:

• The technique proved safe and easy to implement.
• Frequent vacuum seal loss occurred due to patient mobility.
• Drain obstruction by viscous exudate and increased nursing care were noted.
• Lower staff acceptability compared to conventional methods was observed.

Conclusions:

• Manual closed vacuum drainage is a safe and viable option for odontogenic infections.
• Operational constraints, including seal integrity and drain patency, limit its use in non-intensive care settings.
• Future improvements, like integrated irrigation, are needed to enhance clinical performance.