Publication:

Effect of negative suction drain on abdominal wounds after obstetric and gynecological surgery

Background Wound complications are common after gynecological surgery. The purpose of the study was to find out whether use of negative suction reduces wound complications in gynecological surgery

Methods Patients undergoing obstetric and gynecological surgeries were taken into the study. The study group had negative suction drain in the subcutaneous plane. The control group had conventional layered closure of abdominal wound. Wound complications were noted in each group and compared.

Results We found significant reduction in surgical site infections in the negative suction group. In patients who are obese and BMI>25 there were less delayed wound healing, surgical site infections and gaping in negative suction group.

Conclusions The use of negative suction drain significantly reduced surgical site infections. In patients with BMI>25 there was significant reduction in the incidence of delayed wound healing, gaping and surgical site infections.