Impact of using triclosan-antibacterial sutures on incidence of surgical site infection

BACKGROUND: Surgical site infection is a common complication of surgery. Its morbidities range from delayed healing to systemic sepsis. It has impact on the economy and health care resources. METHODS: This study was a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled multicenter study aimed to compare triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 sutures with polyglactin 910 sutures for the reduction of surgical site infections. This article details the results from the Cairo University center. A total of 450 patients who had undergone different surgical procedures were enrolled; 230 were enrolled in the study group and 220 were enrolled in the control group. RESULTS: The study group and the control group were comparable regarding risk factors for surgical site infection. Surgical site infection incidence was 7% in the study group and 15% in the control group (P = .011). The mean extended stay as a result of infection was 3.71 days, with an average cost $91 US per day. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 antimicrobial suture lead to reduction of surgical site infection and has an impact on saving health care resources. The triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 antimicrobial suture could save $1,517,727 yearly in this single center. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.