Efficacy of Diluted Betadine Solution Irrigation in the Prevention of Postoperative Infection of Spinal Surgery

Abstract

Background: Deep wound infection is a serious complication of spinal surgery that can jeopardize patient outcomes and increase costs. Povidone iodine is a widely used antiseptic with bactericidal activity against a wide spectrum of pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of diluted betadine irrigation of spinal surgical wounds in prevention of postoperative wound infection. Patients and Methods: One hundred patients of both sex aged 25-65 years old were enrolled in this prospective study. The patients were randomized in to two equal groups. In group 1 (50 patients), surgical wounds were irrigated with diluted betadine solution (3.5% betadine) before wound closure. In group 2(50 patients), the wounds were not irrigated and serve as a control. Otherwise, perioperative management was the same for both groups.
Results: Mean length of follow-up was 24 months in both groups (range, 12–24 months). No wound infection occurred in group 1. One superficial infection (2%) and six deep infections (12%) occurred in group 2.
Conclusions: Diluted Betadine effectively prevents spinal surgery wound infection therefore it is recommended to use this simple and inexpensive antiseptic substance following spinal surgery.