Analysis of efficacy in postoperative use of closed suction drain in cases of traumatic dorsolumbar spine injury

Abstract

Introduction: The use of closed suction drain has been controversial considering its utility in reducing infection and hematoma formation in the postoperative period. This study aims at analyzing the use of closed suction drain in patients of traumatic dorsolumbar spine injury managed by open posterior instrumentation. Materials and Methods: A total of 110 cases of traumatic spine injury with neurological deficit in the age group 18–65 years of either sex were included in this study. All the patients were managed by short-segment fixation without open decompression of the cord and without primary fusion. The use of closed suction drain in the postoperative period was randomized by randomized controlled trial table. Results: On comparing the difference between pre- and post-operative hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, visual analog scale, and duration of hospital stay, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: The use of closed suction drain in posterior instrumentation done for the cases of traumatic dorsolumbar spine injury within described parameters did not reduce postoperative wound infection, clinically significant hematoma formation or risk of further neurological injury.