Lapprotector™ Use Decreases Incisional Wound Infections in Cases of Perforated Appendicitis: A Prospective Study

Objective To examine whether Lapprotector™, a protective film and ring device for protectingwounds, can prevent wound infection after open appendectomy. Methods We performed open appendectomy on 64 patients between 2004 and 2006. In September 2005, we started using Lapprotector™ to protect the site of incision (McBurney's point). Patients were dividedinto two groups as follows: Lapp(−), n =32; Lapp(+), n =32. Patient demographics were not statisticallydifferent and antibiotic protocols were identical. Results In the Lapp(−) group, the appendix was perforated in seven patients (21.9%) and not perfo-rated in 25 patients (78.1%). In the Lapp(+) group, the appendix was perforated in nine patients (28.1%) and not perforated in 23 patients (71.9%). For perforated cases, incisional wound infection was seen in three out of seven patients (42.9%) in the Lapp(−) group and in no patient (0%) in the Lapp(+) group, a significant difference ( p 2 test). For nonperforated cases, wound infection was seen in only one out of 25 patients (4.0%) in the Lapp(−) group. Conclusion We recommend using Lapprotector™ to prevent incisional wound infection in patientsrequiring open appendectomy, especially in cases where the appendix is perforated.