Conclusion
Pin site infections associated with external fixation continue to be a challenging problem. Currently there are limited treatment options available and when these fail the results can be disastrous for the patient, often leading to increased risk for readmission and raising the cost of care. As per the latest literature, it is evident that modulating the pin–bone or pin–skin interface holds promise as a potential solution for reducing pin tract infections. Transitioning to utilizing a novel biodegradable and microbicidal polymer specifically at the pin-skin interface is a shift in the clinical paradigm.
Preventogen does not replace the absolute necessity for stable wire insertion and fixation. secure application of the external fixator following sound biomechanical Ilizarov principles including placement of pins in the diaphysis of long bones and at an ideal 60 degree angle from one another in a manner that minimizes thermal necrosis with simultaneous tensioning Preventogen is applied early, within the first week of pin application where there is the highest risk for bacterial adhesion and formation of biofilm due to weakened host defense mechanisms. The product is easy to use and provides a repeatable result with a multitude of different skill sets for those applying it. It is tolerated well by patients. Preventogen has demonstrated its effectiveness as a bioorganic polymer occlusive dressing, that when utilized as part of the pin site care protocol with external fixation, can reduce the incidence of pin site infections.
Case Presentation
A female presented with a severe hallux valgus deformity that was confirmed on x-ray. Due to a history of smoking and poor skin turgor, the patient had a high-risk of would dehiscence. In addition, the patient’s history of smoking augmented her postmenopausal osteoporosis (Fig.1).
Conclusion
It is apparent from this study that the application of Preventogen, a novel microbicidal liquid that forms and occlusive elastomeric film barrier, when applied as part of a pin-tract care protocol on pin sites, significantly reduces the occurrence of pin-tract infections. Since reimbursement/cost is a limiting factor for both external fixation and internal fixation, there is a significant opportunity to make a positive impact on the growth of the external fixation market through the reduction of the incidence of pin-tract infection associated with external fixation.
This novel microbicidal liquid polymer is the pathway to this opportunity. In a limited number of studies, application of the microbicidal liquid polymer has shown its effectiveness in dramatically reducing the rate of pin-tract infections related to external fixation. This promising opportunity through the use of this product as standard addition to pin-tract care can have a dramatic impact on the increased adoption of external fixation devices.
Conclusion
Early research shows that DuraDerm is effective in the prevention of pin tract infection post deformity correction and/or traumatic provisional surgery.
