PHMB-based Antiseptic Use in Full-thickness Surgical Wounds

A Study of Polyhexanide-based Antiseptic in Full-thickness Surgical Wounds in Dermatologic Surgery

To study the effect of applying a PHMB-based antiseptic solution to tie-over dressings in full-thickness surgical wounds in dermatologic surgery in order to minimise the development of surgical site infections. The bacterial dynamics in wounds pre-,intra-, and postoperatively will be examined in order to understand the pathogenesis of surgical site infections better.

40 patients with suspected skin cancer in the face planned for full-thickness surgery will be randomised into two groups: One will receive a traditional tie-over dressing saturated with NaCl and the other group will receive a tie-over dressing saturated with a PHMB-based antiseptic. A quantitative and qualitative bacterial analysis of wounds by using a modified Levine's swabbing technique will be carried out pre-,intra-,and postoperatively. The effect of nasal colonisation with S.aureus on the development of surgical site infections will be investigated. All wounds will be followed a week after surgery to assess development of infections.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients planned for full-thickness skin grafting in the face

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with no diabetes
• Patients with no current/previous/recent antibiotic therapy