title: The use of surgical drains in orthopedics.
abstract: The use of postsurgical drains have a long history in thoracic and abdominal surgery. In orthopedics these devices have been used to decrease local edema, lessen the potential for hematoma or seroma formation, and to aid in the efflux of infection. However, the role of postoperative surgical drains in clean, elective cases has not been firmly established. In fact, most studies fail to show a statistical difference in outcome between drained and undrained patients. Despite the paucity of clinical evidence demonstrating any benefit supporting their use, drains continue to be placed after elective orthopedic procedures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bone and Joint/Sports Medicine Institute, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia 23708, USA.
authors.forename: Robert J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Gaines
authors.forename: Robert P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Dunbar
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D020878:Device Removal; D004322:Drainage; D006801:Humans; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011184:Postoperative Period; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000517:prevention & control; D014945:Wound Healing