Surgical lavage is a washout process performed during surgery to remove contamination and debris from the operative site. It's a routine practice, especially in procedures like hip, knee, and shoulder replacements.
Purpose of Surgical Lavage
The main goal of surgical lavage is to clean the surgical area. This helps in:
- Removing bacteria to reduce the risk of infection.
- Clearing away bone fragments or other debris.
- Ensuring a clean surface for implant placement or tissue closure.
How Surgical Lavage is Performed
Surgical lavage involves using a sterile solution to irrigate the surgical site. This solution is often delivered through a nozzle or spray, and the fluid is then suctioned away, carrying contaminants with it.
Surgical Lavage in Joint Replacements
As the provided reference indicates, surgical lavage is routinely used in joint replacement surgeries, such as:
- Hip replacements
- Knee replacements
- Shoulder replacements
In these procedures, it helps to ensure a clean and stable environment for the new joint to function properly.
