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Techniques Known to Prevent Post-Operative Wound Infection

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2015

Ronald Lee Nichols*
Affiliation:
Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
*
Department of Surgery, Tulane University, School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112

Abstract

The most important factors in controlling postsurgical sepsis are appropriate surgical judgment and technique. Efficacious prophylactic antibiotics, when indicated, also significantly reduce the postoperative infection rate. Among the other techniques often heralded as important adjunctive measures, only duration of preoperative hospitalization, preoperative bathing, use of electrocautery, preoperative hair removal, use of prophylactic drains, and duration of operation are of proven significance.

Type
Original Articles
Copyright
Copyright © The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America 1982

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