Povidone-iodine: an adjunct in the treatmen of wound infections, dehiscences, and fistulas in head and neck surgery.

Extensive research has been done to elucidate the cellular and biochemical events of a healing wound. Similarly, new techniques are continually being investigated which would stimulate and augment the reparative process. This paper describes the uses and biochemistry of povidone-iodine which has gained widespread acceptance as a surgical preparation. However, its use as a topical agent for treating head and neck wound infections, dehiscences, and salivary fistulas has gained little recognition. Povidone-iodine is a unique compound formed by binding free iodine to polyvinylpyrrolidone. Previously, the toxic effects of iodine limited its use to preparation of the skin for surgery. When bound to the pyrrolidine molecule, iodine becomes water soluble and markedly less toxic. As a result, the broad antimicrobial spectrum of iodine may be used topically to control wound sepsis. It can be applied to mucosal surfaces without producing burns. The brown color acts as an indicator of its clinical effectiveness. When the dressings become light yellow or pale, free iodine is no longer being released and the dressing should be changed. Povidone-iodine is not a panacea for correcting interruption in the healing process during the postoperative period. The basic management of wound infections, dehiscences, and fistulas remains unchanged. Incision and drainage, debridement and flap contracture, lateralization, and diversion are necessary to initiate the healing process. Familarity with each phase of healing provides the basis for managing each of these surgical problems. Topical povidone-iodine not only controls wound sepsis but augments wound healing. The physiologic correlation with each phase of wound healing for these various surgical problems is elaborated and clinical cases presented.