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Instrument sterilization, skin preparation, and wound management
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Equine Practice
|August 1, 1996
Summary
New sterilization methods like gas plasma offer benefits for sensitive instruments. Chlorhexidine gluconate (4%) is a superior surgical scrub, but ideal equine wound treatments remain elusive.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infection Control
- Surgical Practices
Background:
- Advances in instrument sterilization are crucial for preventing surgical site infections.
- Preoperative surgical scrubs play a vital role in reducing microbial load on the skin.
- Effective wound management is essential for optimal healing in equine patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in instrument sterilization techniques.
- To evaluate the efficacy of chlorhexidine gluconate as a preoperative surgical scrub.
- To identify the current limitations and needs in equine wound care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of gas plasma sterilization and glutaraldehyde use.
- Analysis of studies on chlorhexidine gluconate (4%) efficacy.
- Examination of available wound dressings and topical medications for equine use.
Main Results:
- Gas plasma sterilization offers advantages like no toxic residue and suitability for heat-sensitive instruments.
- Chlorhexidine gluconate (4%) demonstrates superior antimicrobial efficacy and residual activity.
- Current wound care options lack sufficient evidence for equine distal limb wounds.
Conclusions:
- Gas plasma sterilization is a promising advancement in instrument disinfection.
- Chlorhexidine gluconate (4%) is recommended as an effective preoperative surgical scrub.
- Further research is needed to establish optimal topical wound preparations for horses.