O que usar no preparo cirúrgico da pele: povidona-iodo ou clorexidina?

Abstract

Objective: To discuss the efficacy of chlorhexidine gluconate and povidone-iodine in aqueous or alcoholic solutions in reducing surgical site infections and skin bacterial counts in the preoperative preparation of the patient. Method: Reflective study about the best antiseptic to use in preoperative skin preparation. Results: We found that chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine are equally safe and effective and that international guidelines for good practices have recommended their use in alcoholic solutions. We observed a trend in recommending alcoholic chlorhexidine and an emergence of studies that have evaluated the sequential or concurrent use of chlorhexidine and povidone iodine with favorable results for this practice. Conclusion: There is a global trend that favors the use of alcoholic chlorhexidine over povidone-iodine. However, the decision about the best antiseptic agent to useshould be based on each clinical case, (contra)indications, and situation.