Lapprotector™ Use Decreases Incisional Wound Infections in Cases of Perforated Appendicitis: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Objective: To examine whether Lapprotector™, a protective film and ring device for protectingwounds, can prevent wound infection after open appendectomy. Methods: We performed open appendectomy on 64 patients between 2004 and 2006. In September 2005, we started using Lapprotector™ to protect the site of incision (McBurney's point). Patients were dividedinto two groups as follows: Lapp(−), n =32; Lapp(+), n =32. Patient demographics were not statisticallydifferent and antibiotic protocols were identical. Results: In the Lapp(−) group, the appendix was perforated in seven patients (21.9%) and not perfo-rated in 25 patients (78.1%). In the Lapp(+) group, the appendix was perforated in nine patients (28.1%) and not perforated in 23 patients (71.9%). For perforated cases, incisional wound infection was seen in three out of seven patients (42.9%) in the Lapp(−) group and in no patient (0%) in the Lapp(+) group, a significant difference (p <0.05, χ2 test). For nonperforated cases, wound infection was seen in only one out of 25 patients (4.0%) in the Lapp(−) group. Conclusion: We recommend using Lapprotector™ to prevent incisional wound infection in patientsrequiring open appendectomy, especially in cases where the appendix is perforated.

Keywords

• appendicitis
• appendectomy
• paediatrics
• surgical instruments
• surgical wound infection