Antiseptics Commonly Used in Total Joint Arthroplasty Interact and May Form Toxic Products.

<bold>Background: </bold>Multiple antiseptics have been described for use in total joint arthroplasty infection, and the use of multiple antiseptic solutions during a single operation has been described. Our clinical experience is that chlorhexidine (CHX) and Dakin's solution (NaOCl) interact and form a precipitate. The purpose of this study is to determine whether this reaction could be replicated in a laboratory setting, and to determine if other commonly used antiseptics also visibly react when mixed.<bold>Methods: </bold>Four percent chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 3% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and 10% povidone-iodine (BTD) solutions were obtained and all possible combinations were mixed. Any visible reactions were noted and recorded, and a literature search was performed to characterize the reaction and products.<bold>Results: </bold>CHX and NaOCl, CHX and H2O2, and CHX and BTD reacted instantly, forming a precipitate. NaOCl and H2O2 reacted to produce a gas. NaOCl and BTD reacted and produced a color change. The literature review revealed that at least 2 of the reactions tested (CHX + NaOCl and NaOCl + H2O2) could result in byproducts toxic to humans.<bold>Conclusion: </bold>Surgeons must be aware of these interactions when using antiseptic solutions during procedures. Caution should be used combining or mixing antiseptics, and we recommend against concomitant introduction in a surgical wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]