Effektivität des pulsierenden Wasserstrahles (Jet-Lavage) zur Reinigung infizierter Wunden

In a prospective, randomized comparative study in 32 patients (age 16 to 82 years) with infected wounds on the lower extremities, the effectiveness of the pulsating jet (pressure 100 p/cm2, flow 1 l/min) was compared with that of conventional manual irrigation by histological and bacteriological examinations. The reduction of microorganisms in wound secretion, skin, muscle and bone was significantly higher with jet lavage than with manual irrigation. Histological results showed no mechanical alteration of the tissue was caused by the jet, and wound cleansing was more effective. Thus, jet lavage is recommended as a therapeutic measure for wound cleansing in open fractures as well as for reduction of microorganisms in septic surgery after adequate debridement.