ABSTRACT
Most incisions are closed under primary intention. For skin closure, staples, sutures, Steri-Strips, and surgical adhesive are commonly used. In some cases a drain may be inserted in a location separate from the surgical incision. Wounds should be kept under sterile dressing for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery and kept dry to heal. Wounds should be checked periodically for symptoms of infection. There is no gold standard regarding drain management. Surgeons place drains based on the type of the surgery, length of operating time, and patient variables such as anticoagulation medications; however, use of drains remains primarily at the discretion of the surgeon. With much variability in practice, it is important for the allied health-care professional to understand and identify trends in the standards of practice of the surgeon, the health-care facility, and the specific patient population.
