Analysis of povidone iodine, chlorhexidine acetate and polyhexamethylene biguanide as wound disinfectants: in vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity

Abstract

All three disinfectants were cytotoxic; therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the use time and concentration in the clinical setting. All three disinfectants were cytotoxic, with povidone-iodine being the most cytotoxic even at low concentrations. PHMB had better antibacterial efficacy against <i>S. aureus</i> and is suitable for the treatment of shallow wounds primarily. All three tested bacteria were significantly more sensitive to PHMB than to the other disinfectants.