Table 3 Summary of postoperative interventions

Drains and blood transfusion

• Cochrane review finds no difference in infection rates between those with drains and those without

[75]-[78]

• Blood transfusions increase risk of infection and length of hospital stay

Wound management

• Keep surgical dressings clean and dry Antimicrobial dressings may help reduce infections

[79],[80]

Urinary tract infection

• Avoid catherization when possible, and always remove as soon as possible

[81],[82]

• Suprapubic and condom catheters have lower rates of infection

• In high-risk patients, silver alloy catheters may be of benefit