Abstract
We set out to determine whether delayed opening of drains following total knee replacement reduced blood loss and hence transfusion requirements without detriment to wound status and range of movement.
We performed a prospective randomised controlled trial in two centres. Seventy six patients undergoing primary total knee replacement surgery were entered into the study. In one group (45 patients) the drains were opened immediately following surgery. In the other group (31 patients) the drains were left clamped for a period of two hours. Parameters measured following surgery were overall drainage, drop in haemoglobin, transfusion requirements, wound status and overall range of movement. All patients were followed up in a dedicated research clinic for a period of six months.
No significant difference was found in the volume of drained blood between the two groups. In addition, there was no significant difference between the pre and post operative haemoglobin levels. Range of knee movement and wound status were satisfactory in both groups.
The authors believe that although clamping drains has no adverse effects on knee wounds and range of movement, in this study it has no benefit in reducing blood loss or transfusion requirements
The abstracts were prepared by Mr R. B. Smith. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the British Orthopaedic Association, Royal College of Surgeons, 35-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN.
