The efficacy of subcutaneous penrose drains for the prevention of superficial surgical site infections

Abstract

Introduction: The effect of subcutaneous Penrose drain(PD)insertion in superficial surgical site infection(s-SSI)has not been reported comprehensively. To evaluate effectiveness, we implanted the PD subcutaneously in all cases at high s-SSI risk. Materials and Methods: From April to August 2008, all cases at high s-SSI risk, i.e.) classified into wound class III or IV, or II accompanied by at least 20-mm-thick subcutaneous fat, were subjected to subcutaneous PD implantation and checked for s-SSI occurrence based on risk, wound class, and their totality, followed by comparison with the incidence from November 2007 to March 2008. Results: From April to August 2008, 50 high-risk subjects had a s-SSI incidence of 8.0%. Previous s-SSI incidence from November 2007 to March 2008 was 42.6%. Prophylactic subcutaneous drainage thus significantly decreased in high-risk patients at high risk(p<0.001)and in each classified group and totality, i.e.) ClassII: 9.18% vs. 1.87%, p=0.044, ClassIII: 32.0% vs. 6.90%, p=0.032, ClassIV: 50.0% vs. 10.0%, p<0.001, total: 9.91% vs. 1.97%, p<0.001. Conclusion: The Penrose drain, costing just a few dollars, demonstrates definite potential as an effective means for preventing s-SSI. © 2010 The Japanese Society of Gastroenterological Surgery.