Closed-wound drainage systems. The Solcotrans Plus versus the Stryker-CBC ConstaVAC.

Abstract

Ninety-six patients (63 females and 33 males) who underwent total joint arthroplasty or spinal reconstructive surgery were randomized to receive either a Solcotrans Plus or a Stryker-CBC ConstaVAC closed-wound drainage system. A binomial test showed that the Stryker-CBC ConstaVAC system was significantly preferred over the Solcotrans Plus system for ease of use, as reported by nurses. However, Solcotrans Plus was more cost-effective because a larger volume of blood shed by a patient could be reinfused while maintaining the standards of the American Association of Blood Banks. The difference in the occurrence of side effects between the two systems was not statistically significant.