Clinical study on the antiseptic effect of povidone-iodine solution for the surgical field of digestive tract operations.

Our previous study showed 10% povidone-iodine solution (Isodine) to be safe and effective for skin antisepsis in healthy young adults. The present study was carried out in 45 adult and old-age patients undergoing surgery (average age 62 years). 10% povidone-iodine solution was effective for skin antisepsis; however, after completion of the intra-abdominal procedures, contaminations were found due to the type II and IV operations with unprotected incision sites and wound walls. Diabetes was found to be one of the most important factors in surgical site infection. In conclusion, the antiseptic efficacy immediately after application of 10% povidone-iodine solution was evidenced in surgical patients with class II wounds. The solution was also effective for the prevention of postoperative skin wound infection. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel