The impact of starch-powdered gloves on the formation of adhesions in rats.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the influence of starch powdered surgical gloves on the postoperative formation of adhesions in a standard rat model. DESIGN: Prospective, randomised, double-blind study. MATERIAL: 197 rats. INTERVENTIONS: Abdominal cavity was exposed to gloves during the induction of adhesions and for an additional two minutes. Animals were operated on with the operator wearing either starch-powdered or powder-free gloves. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Formation of adhesions and starch particles present in the adhesions after one, three, 12, or 24 weeks. RESULTS: When powdered gloves were worn the percentage of adhesions formed was significantly greater (n = 197, p < 0.01) than when powder-free gloves were worn. Starch particles were found in biopsy specimens from rats operated on with powdered gloves, but not when powder-free gloves were used. CONCLUSION: Even the small amount of starch that settles in the abdominal cavity during an operation increases the amount of adhesions formed.