Efficacy of Triclosan-coated Sutures in the Episiotomy

The Effect of Triclosan-coated Sutures for Reducing Risk of Surgical Site Infection After Episiotomy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Surgical repair of perineal lesions after delivery can be associated with infection of the surgery site. The aim of this study was to compare the surgical site infection with triclosan-coated suture (Vicryl Plus) versus coated suture (Vicryl) in the episiotomy after delivery.

Women undergoing planned were randomized to either episiotomy suture with VICRYL PLUS or VICRYL. The primary outcome measures were number of sutures used and the development of hematoma, seroma, surgical site infection (SSI) or wound disruption one week after episiotomy. Secondary outcome measures were the cost of the treatment with or without infection, and scar evaluation (wound complication).

Data were analyzed according to the intention to treat principle.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant women who had had an episiotomy at the delivery
• vaginal delivery
• no further perineal or vaginal lesions present

Exclusion Criteria:

• collagen disease
• known immunodeficiency
• Clinical signs of infection at the time of episiotomy
• History of keloids and a medical disorder that could affect wound healing
• Hypersensitivity to any of the suture materials used in the protocol
• Diabetes mellitus
• Disorders requiring chronic corticosteroid use or immunosuppression
• Instrumental extraction