The Effect of Pre-Operative Bacterial Decolonization on Post-Operative Infection Rate for Lower Extremity Wounds Healing by Second Intention

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to find out if using antibacterial soap and ointment before surgery can reduce infections in open wounds on the lower legs of adults having skin cancer surgery. The study compares a group using Hibiclens skin cleanser and mupirocin ointment before surgery to a group receiving usual care without these treatments. It focuses on whether these topical antibiotics lower the chance of wound infections after surgery. Participants in the treatment group will shower daily with Hibiclens for five days before surgery and apply mupirocin ointment inside their nostrils twice daily for the same period. Both groups will have their skin cancer surgery and receive standard wound care instructions. The treatment group uses the antibacterial products before surgery; the control group does not. After surgery, both groups will send photos of their surgical wounds at two and four weeks to check for infections. During the study, researchers will monitor wound healing and infection signs based on the photos and follow-up visits if infection is suspected. They will collect data on the number of infections up to one month after surgery and identify the types of bacteria involved. The study participation involves pre-surgery treatment for some, surgery with wound care, photo submissions for monitoring, and occasional office visits if infection concerns arise.

The Effect of Bacterial Decolonization Before Skin Cancer Surgery on Infection Rate of Lower Extremity Wounds Left Open to Heal