The effectiveness of Triclosan coated Polyglactin 910 in reducing surgical site infection in clean wounds

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infection(SSI) is a major cause of morbidity, mortality and financial burden in healthcare. Worldwide it accounts for as much as USD 10 billion annually in direct and indirect medical cost.Many strategies have been developed to try and reduce SSI. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of triclosan coated polyglactin 910 sutures in reduction of superficial surgical site infection in clean wounds as well as infection rates in clean wounds Design: A non-blinded randomised controlled trial. Setting: Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the minor theatre in clinic 24. Subjects: A total of 157patients underwent excision of breast lump. Results: The prevalence rate of SSI in the study group was 5%(4 of 79 patients) while in the control group it was 4%(3 of 78 patients). The difference between the two groups was not statistically significant(P-value 0.507). Conclusion: This study did not demonstrate a reduction of superficial surgical site when triclosan coated polyglactin 910 suture was used in clean wounds. Currently, the clinical role and indication for use of triclosan coated polyglactin 910 is yet to be fully defined.