Wound contamination. Assessment, prevention, and management.

The history of a wound and its clinical appearance help the clinician make appropriate decisions on management. The level of contamination in the wound can be determined with the rapid biopsy fixation technique. Extensive wound debridement, high-pressure irrigation, and cautious use of antibiotics should reduce the bacterial count to a level that allows primary healing. The use of sutures of appropriate chemical and physical characteristics should minimize suture contribution to the development of wound infection. Coverage of the wound after closure protects it from external contaminants and allows for completion of epithelialization. Immobilization and, if possible, elevation of the wounded part decrease secondary edema formation.

Duke Scholars

Author Gregory S. Georgiade Surgery, Plastic, Maxillofacial, and Oral Surgery