An in-vitro model for comparing the efficiency of wound-rinsing solutions.
OBJECTIVE
To develop an in-vitro model to evaluate the efficiency of wound-rinsing solutions in removing adherent, hydrophobic, denatured proteins. We hypothesised that saline solutions would be less effective than surfactant-containing solutions in removing denatured proteins.


METHODS
Prepared slides containing dried blood plasma or fibrin were incubated for up to one hour in histological troughs filled with one of four test solutions: physiological saline solution, Ringer's solution, a surfactant-containing solution and an antiseptic. The concentration of dissolved proteins was measured using a modified Biuret test. Results were analysed by plotting protein concentration against the incubation time.


RESULTS
During the incubation period, the protein concentration increased in all of the test solutions, with the lowest concentration reported in the two saline-based solutions. These stayed clear, while the surfactant-containing solution become opaque, indicating that the surfactant had encased hydrophic substances, such as denatured proteins.


CONCLUSIONS
Ringer's solution and saline are inappropriate solvents for adhering wound coatings. A sterile, surfactant-containing wound rinsing solution contains the essential properties for thorough and gentle cleansing of chronic wounds.


BACKGROUND
None.
Kaehn
K
K
K2 Hygiene-Dienstleistungen, Aschaffenburg, Germany. k2-hygiene@t-online.de
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004353:Drug Evaluation, Preclinical / Q000379:methods*; D005337:Fibrin / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007552:Isotonic Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010949:Plasma / Q000187:drug effects; D011489:Protein Denaturation / Q000187:drug effects; D000077331:Ringer's Solution; D017592:Skin Care / Q000379:methods; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D013501:Surface-Active Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000628:therapy
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D007552:Isotonic Solutions; D013501:Surface-Active Agents; D012965:Sodium Chloride; D000077331:Ringer's Solution; D005337:Fibrin