Little evidence that antibiotics help open surgical wounds heal

By Kathryn Doyle (Reuters Health) - There are no high-quality trials assessing whether using antibiotics or antiseptics on open surgical wounds speeds healing by slowing the growth of dangerous microorganisms, according to a new Cochrane review. While most surgical incisions are closed with stitches or staples, some cannot be closed if skin edges do not align or there is a high risk of infection, the authors explain. Open surgical wounds are said to heal by secondary intention rather than primary intention like a closed wound.