VANCOMYCIN- AND CHLORHEXIDINE DIGLUCONATE-IMPREGNATED DRESSING FOR THE PREVENTION OF ORTHOPEDIC SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS: A PILOT STUDY USING A LOW-COST PROCEDURE.

Objective: This study introduces a novel approach by proposing a dressing impregnated with vancomycin and chlorhexidine for postoperative care, specifically targeting patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries.

Methods: The research design involved a pilot study with a randomized control group, aiming to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vancomycin with a chlorhexidine dressing (Evidence Level I). Participants received vancomycin and CHG impregnated dressing or non-impregnated dressing during the period from March 2023 to October 2023 in trauma-related surgery in the lower limbs. The sample size was based on convenience, considering the pilot study; even though it was randomized and blinded, this study was not a clinical trial.

Results: A total of 12 patients used an impregnated dressing, and nine used the same dressing without impregnation. Despite limitations, including the small sample size and single-center study location, our findings demonstrate the safety of the impregnated dressing in trauma surgeries, indicating potential applicability in broader surgical contexts.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study contributes to the discourse on preventive strategies for SSIs, presenting a pioneering approach with the use of vancomycin and chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. Future research endeavors, incorporating larger-scale studies and addressing study limitations, are crucial for advancing the understanding and implementation of effective postoperative care strategies. Level of Evidence I; Case-control study.