Revolutionary advances in the management of traumatic wounds in the emergency department during the last 40 years: part I.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

This report provides an overview of advances in wound repair devised by our research team during the last four decades. This collective review is presented in two parts.

DISCUSSION:

The following components are included in Part I: 1) search and treat life-threatening trauma; 2) conduct a thorough history; 3) examine the wound using aseptic technique; 4) anesthetize the wound before cleansing; 5) hair removal, skin disinfection, hemostasis, surgical debridement, and mechanical cleansing; 6) antibiotics, drains, and open wound management.

CONCLUSION:

On the basis of these comprehensive research studies, we have noted a marked reduction in the incidence of wound infection in traumatic wounds.

• Authors: Richard F Edlich, George T Rodeheaver, John G Thacker, Kant Y Lin, David B Drake, Shelley S Mason, Courtney A Wack, Margot E Chase, Curt Tribble, William B Long 3rd, Robert J Vissers
• Journal: The Journal of emergency medicine (J Emerg Med) Vol. 38 Issue 1 Pg. 40-50 (Jan 2010) ISSN: 0736-4679 [Print] United States
• PMID: 19264440 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Anti-Bacterial Agents

Topics

• Anesthesia, Local
• Anti-Bacterial Agents (therapeutic use)
• Disinfection
• Hair Removal
• Humans
• Incidence
• Infection Control (methods)
• Wound Infection (prevention & control)
• Wounds, Penetrating (diagnosis, drug therapy, surgery, therapy)