[Disturbances in surgical wound drains--principles and means of correction (author's transl)]

Hydrodynamic studies of surgical drains are done in abundant quantities of isotropic liquids. In order to emulate the environment within the surgical wound one has to use a changeable or inhomogenous system. Consideration has to be given to the consistency and amount of wound secretion as well as to the size and shape of the wound itself. These specifications are almost fully met by the spiral-drain. Additional advantages are gained through the small diameter and exact construction of the spiral drain. Clinical use of the drain in about 3.800 cases did not show and disadvantages in comparison to other widely used drains. No complications were observed. The painlessness during manipulation of the drain was acknowledged by all patients, especially those who had previous experience with perforated drains.