The effect of glove powders and their constituents on adhesion and granuloma formation in the abdominal cavity of the rabbit.

Abstract

Experiments with female rabbits were performed to establish any links between adhesion and granuloma formation postoperatively in the abdominal cavity and use of glove powders containing magnesium oxide starch or talc. Adhesion and granuloma formation was assessed in a 4-step manner from none to abundant (sheetlike). In talc to treated animals granulomas were invariably observed in abundance in the abdominal cavity. The number of granulomas was much lower in the starch glove-treated group compared with the talc-treated group. Of all of the substances tested magnesium oxide powder caused the fewest lesions. 8 figures depict the granulomas induced and advancing cellular reactions are noted. All of the substances tested were commercially available surgical glove powders and small quantities of magnesium oxide seem the least invasive.