The effectiveness of triclosan coated polyglactin 910 in reducing surgical site infection in clean wounds a randomised control trial

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 $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 triclosancoatedpolyglactin 910 sutures in reduction of superficial surgical site infection in clean wounds. Study design: This was a non-blinded randomised controlled trial. Setting: Kenyatta national hospital, the minor theatre in clinic 24. Sample size: A total of 157patients underwent excision of breast lump. Methods: Patients scheduled for minor clean wound surgery were randomly divided into two groups. In one group the wounds were closed subcutaneously with triclosan coated polyglactin 910 suture, while in the second group plain polyglactin 910 suture was used. The wounds were examined on the 3rd, 7th and 30th day post operatively, for signs of superficial SSI. There was no of use antibiotics perioperatively. However for patients who developed SSI, treatment was offered. Results: The prevalence rate of SSI in the study group was5%(4 of 79patients) while in the control group it was 4%(3 of 78). 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 910suture was used in clean wounds. More studies are needed to look at its effects on other wounds. Currently, the clinical role and indication for use of vicryl plus is yet to be fully defined.