A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Incidence of Surgical Site Infections in Cesarean Section With and Without Subcutaneous Drain Placement at Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Incidence of Surgical Site Infections in Cesarean Section With and Without Subcutaneous Drain Placement at Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital

To study and compare the incidence of surgical site infection after cesarean section in pregnant women with subcutaneous wound drainage and those without subcutaneous wound drainage at Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital, Sriracha. Chonburi Thailand

This study is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) designed to compare the incidence of surgical site infection after cesarean section between patients who receive subcutaneous wound drainage (Radivac drain) and those who do not. Postoperative wound follow-up will be conducted on postoperative days 3, 7, and 14.

Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups, with the control group consisting of pregnant women undergoing cesarean section at Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital, Sriracha. Data will be collected on surgical site infection, pain, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years
• Able to communicate in Thai
• Undergoing cesarean section, both elective and emergency procedures
• Subcutaneous fat thickness ≥ 4 cm, measured preoperatively using a standardized ultrasound technique
• Able to return for postpartum follow-up at Somdech Phra Boromrajthevi Hospital, Sriracha
• Willing to participate in the study and able to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant women with chronic immunosuppressive conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), HIV infection, severe anemia (Hb < 10.0 g/dL), or uncontrolled diabetes
• Presence of skin disease or skin infection at the abdominal surgical site
• Evidence of infection prior to cesarean section
• Abnormal bleeding disorders requiring specialized treatment
• History of allergy to, or complications from, the use of wound drainage systems
• Refusal to participate in the study