The Efficacy of Povidone-Iodine (PVI) in Reducing The Rate of Infection in Wound Healing and

Surgery Site Infection (SSI): A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trial

Yong Yee Wen

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Wound healing is the complex biological process of replacing the destroyed or damaged
tissue by newly produced tissue. Wound healing can face challenges and be impaired as a result of
infection or heavy bacterial burden. Povidone-Iodine (PVI) has been used as the prevention of wound
infection for a long time due to its bactericidal ability against a large array of pathogens. However, the
efficacy of this agent in reducing the rate of infection have been debated.

Aim: To determine the efficacy of Povidone-Iodine in preventing infection, especially in wound healing
and Surgery Site Infection.

Methods: Literature search was conducted based on the PRISMA framework in PubMed, ScienceDirect,
Publisher, and Google Scholar, selecting Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) systematically up to October
15, 2022.

Results and Discussion: A total of 7 randomized clinical trial studies assessed the efficacy of
Povidone-Iodine in reducing the rate of infections. In 4 out of 7 studies, we found that the usage of
Povidone-iodine was proved to have greater risk of Surgery Site Infection and less effective in reducing
the rate of infection.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Povidone-Iodine is proven to be less effective in reducing the rate of infection
in wound healing and Surgery Site Infection. However, the usage of Povidone-Iodine can be considered
because it is more convenient, safer, and more economical.

Keyword: Povidone-Iodine (PVI), rate of infection, wound healing, Surgery Site Infection (SSI)