The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume
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J Bone Joint Surg Am · Jul 2005
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialComparison of soap and antibiotic solutions for irrigation of lower-limb open fracture wounds. A prospective, randomized study.
Irrigation of open fracture wounds is a commonly performed procedure, and irrigation additives have been used in an attempt to reduce the risk of infection. In vitro and animal studies have suggested that irrigation with detergent solution is more effective than irrigation with a solution containing antibiotic additives. This study was performed to compare the efficacy of those two solutions in the treatment of open fractures in humans. ⋯ Irrigation of open fracture wounds with antibiotic solution offers no advantages over the use of a nonsterile soap solution, and it may increase the risk of wound-healing problems.