Systematic review and meta-analysis of preoperative antisepsis with chlorhexidine versus povidone-iodine in clean-contaminated surgery

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#adolescent #adult #anti-infective-agents-local #chlorhexidine #humans

Systematic review and meta-analysis of preoperative antisepsis with chlorhexidine versus povidone-iodine in clean-contaminated surgery

Noorani et al., 2010 | Br J Surg | Meta Analysis

Citation

Noorani A, Rabey N, ... Davies R J. Systematic review and meta-analysis of preoperative antisepsis with chlorhexidine versus povidone-iodine in clean-contaminated surgery. Br J Surg. 2010-Nov;97(11):1614-20. doi:10.1002/bjs.7214

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Surgical-site infection increases morbidity, mortality and financial burden. The preferred topical antiseptic agent (chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine) for preoperative skin cleansing is unclear. METHODS: A meta-analysis of clinical trials was conducted to determine whether preoperative antisepsis with chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine reduced surgical-site infection in clean-contaminated surgery. RESULTS: The systematic review identified six eligible studies, containing 5031 patients. Chlorhexidine reduced postoperative surgical-site infection compared with povidone-iodine (pooled odds ratio 0.68, 95 per cent confidence interval 0.50 to 0.94; P = 0.019) . CONCLUSION: Chlorhexidine should be used preferentially for preoperative antisepsis in clean-contaminated surgery.

Key Findings

The systematic review identified six eligible studies, containing 5031 patients. Chlorhexidine reduced postoperative surgical-site infection compared with povidone-iodine (pooled odds ratio 0.68, 95 per cent confidence interval 0.50 to 0.94; P = 0.019) .

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 5031
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Chlorhexidine
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Povidone-Iodine
  • Surgical Wound Infection
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: iodine

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09