Prevention of wound contamination using DuraPrep™ solution plus Ioban™ 2 drapes

The use of the preoperative skin preparation DuraPrep™ is thought to enhance the adhesion qualities of an incise drape. If there is less drape lift it was hypothesized that there may be a reduction in wound contamination. We did a single-center, randomized trial to determine if a preoperative skin preparation containing DuraPrep™ solution plus Ioban™ 2 drapes reduced wound contamination in total joint replacement surgery compared with a povidone iodine scrub and paint plus Ioban 2 drapes. Secondary research questions focused on comparisons of differences in drape lift and cost between the two groups. Of the 176 evaluable patients, the proportion of patients with a contaminated wound was similar in the two groups (DuraPrep 28.0% versus povidone iodine 36.4%). The mean drape lift in the DuraPrep group was less than the povidone iodine group (1.5 cm² versus 9.9 cm² respectively). The mean cost of prepping was lower for the DuraPrep group compared with the povidone iodine group ($93.36 and $248.91, respectively). A preoperative skin preparation regimen containing DuraPrep solution plus Ioban 2 drapes is equivalent to a povidone iodine scrub and paint and Ioban 2 for the prevention of wound contamination during total joint replacement surgery. Improved drape lift and cost may influence the choice between the two methods. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic diagnostic study, Level 1 (randomized, prospective study).