Wound blisters post hip surgery: a prospective trial comparing dressings

Abstract

Introduction: Wound blisters are formed in the epidermis adjacent to surgical incisions and are a significant cause of morbidity following hip surgery. This study was designed to compare two commonly used primary dressings, namely a nonadherent absorbable (NAA) dressing and paraffin tulle gras (PTG). Monitoring for the subsequent development of wound blisters in the epidermis adjacent to the surgical incision was then undertaken.

Methods: The present study was performed in the setting of a prospective, randomised trial of 50 consecutive patients undergoing hip surgery. It was assumed there would be no difference in the development of blisters between the dressing groups. The alternative hypothesis was that PTG would, because of its properties, provide less friction in the epidermis and contribute to fewer wound blisters.

Results: A statistically significant difference (P = 0.0028) between the two dressing groups was observed with the NAA group developing blisters in 17 (64%) patients and the PTG group in only two (8%) of the patients.

Conclusion: The present study would suggest that PTG produces fewer wound blisters following hip surgery when compared to the NAA type as a primary dressing.