Clinical evaluation of hydrocolloid dressings for neurosurgical wounds.

BACKGROUND

Empirical methods in postoperative wound care have been performed by individual neurosurgeons. We evaluated a hydrocolloid dressing for neurosurgical wounds according to the modern concept of wound healing.

METHODS

From May 2005 to March 2007, we performed 117 cranial neurosurgical procedures in consecutive 100 patients. Karayahesive (ALCARE, Tokyo, Japan), a transparent hydrocolloid dressing, was affixed onto all wounds immediately postoperatively. Clinical evaluations were performed for wound healing, wound infection, and cost-effectiveness.

RESULTS

Excellent wound healing and cosmetic results were obtained in all patients. There was no incisional surgical site infection. Analysis of cost-effectiveness suggested Karayahesive as superior to conventional gauze-and-tape dressings.

CONCLUSION

Karayahesive fits with the modern concept of wound healing and is a useful dressing for neurosurgical wounds.