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[Drainage and lavage in abdominal surgery: bacteriologic aspects]
Helvetica Chirurgica Acta
|December 1, 1979
Summary
Draining infected cavities is effective, explained by opsonization and phagocytosis. Prophylactic drainage prevents infection but carries risks, necessitating short insertion periods.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Surgical Procedures
Context:
- Drainage of purulent collections in thoracic and abdominal cavities is a standard procedure.
- Recent understanding of opsonization and phagocytosis provides a mechanistic explanation for drainage efficacy.
Purpose:
- To explain the effectiveness of draining infected cavities using immunological principles.
- To discuss the benefits and risks of prophylactic drainage in uninfected cavities.
Summary:
- Drainage effectively clears purulent collections, supported by enhanced bacterial opsonization and phagocytosis.
- Prophylactic drainage removes infectious material but introduces risks like foreign body reactions, obstruction, and fistula formation.
Impact:
- Provides a scientific basis for the clinical practice of draining infected cavities.
- Highlights the need for judicious use and short-term application of drains in prophylactic settings.