Effect of three wound dressings on infection, healing comfort, and cost in patients with sternotomy wounds: a randomized trial.
OBJECTIVE
To compare three dressing types in terms of their ability to protect against infection and promote healing, patient comfort, and cost-effectiveness.


METHODS
Prospective, randomized controlled trial.


METHODS
Major metropolitan, academically affiliated, tertiary referral center.


METHODS
Seven hundred thirty-seven patients were randomized to receive a dry absorbent dressing (n = 243) [Primapore; Smith & Nephew; Sydney, NSW, Australia], a hydrocolloid dressing (n = 267) [Duoderm Thin ConvaTec; Mulgrave, VIC, Australia], or a hydroactive dressing (n = 227) [Opsite; Smith & Nephew] in the operating theater on skin closure.


RESULTS
There was no difference in the rate of wound infection or wound healing between treatment groups. The Primapore dressing was the most comfortable and cost-effective dressing option for the sternotomy wound. Duoderm Thin dressings were associated with increased wound exudate (p < 0.001), poor dressing integrity (p < 0.001), more frequent dressing changes (p < 0.001), more discomfort with removal (p < 0.05), and increased cost (p < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
In the context of no additional benefit for the prevention of wound infection or the rate of wound healing for any of the three dressing products examined, dry absorbent dressings are the most comfortable and cost-effective products for sternotomy wounds following cardiac surgery.
Wynne
Rochelle
R
School of Nursing, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia. rwynne@deakin.edu.au
Botti
Mari
M
Stedman
Hilary
H
Holsworth
Lynda
L
Harinos
Maria
M
Flavell
Olivia
O
Manterfield
Christianne
C
D000368:Aged; D001458:Bandages / Q000191:economics; D047070:Bandages, Hydrocolloid; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures; D003102:Colloids / Q000191:economics; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009779:Occlusive Dressings / Q000191:economics; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011140:Polyurethanes / Q000191:economics; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013249:Sternum / Q000601:surgery*; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000191:economics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014945:Wound Healing
D003102:Colloids; C027324:Opsiture; D011140:Polyurethanes