Effectiveness of hemovacum drain in orthopedic operations related to trauma

Introduction: The application of droun in clean orthopedic operations takes place usually without a scientific basis. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the hemovacum drain efficacy in some of orthopedic operations related to trauma. Methods: In this experimental trial, 141 patients who were admitted to Dr. Bahonar Hospital, between September 2004 to April 2005, for surgical operations related to trauma, were randomly divided into two groups. In the first group (102 wounds), a single hemovacum drain was inserted after completion of the operation, while in the second group (113 wounds), no drain was inserted. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 15 and independent T-test and chi-square test. Results: At the end of the follow up period, 5 patients in the no-drain group (4.4%) and 2 of the drain group (2%) had deep infection. There was not any significant difference between both the groups. Severe hematoma formation (requiring drainage) occurred in only one patient of no-drain group. Again although the need for analgesics in the first 48 hours of the operation (70 of the no-drain group (61.9%) and 58 of the drain group (56.9%) and the need for dressing change due to wetting in the first 24 hours (27 of the no-drain group (24.5%) and 19 of the drain group (18.6%)] had increased, the difference was not statistically significant in either the groups. Conclusion: According to our findings, it seems that hemovacum drain is not effective in these aspects, however does not increase the risk of complications. Nevertheles, drain application seems to be a logical approach until larger studies to be performed.