Role of Wound Irrigation After Appendectomy

A Randomized Trial on Wound Irrigation in Prevention of Surgical Site Infection After Appendectomy

Surgical site infection is a common problem after open appendectomy. Irrigation of the surgical wound by topical antibiotics has been devised as a measure to reduce the incidence of wound infection. The present trial aims to assess the efficacy of layer-by-layer wound irrigation with gentamicin-saline solution in prevention of superficial surgical site infection after open appendectomy for acute uncomplicated appendicitis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients of both genders aging between 18 and 65 years who present with acute appendicitis.
• Patients with perforated appendicitis will be also included.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with appendicular mass, appendicular abscess, generalized peritonitis.
• Patients with other causes of acute abdomen as revealed intraoperatively.
• Patients taking long course of steroid therapy or immunosuppressive treatment,
• Patients unwilling to participate in the trial.