The antibiotic bead pouch is a dressing consisting of antibiotic laden polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads placed in a wound, which is covered by a porous membrane (Opsite). This paper outlines the method, rationale and results of the use of this dressing technique for extensive wounds before definitive wound closure. A case series review of 15 consecutive patients with a variety of soft tissue wounds that were managed with an antibiotic bead pouch dressing is presented. The method of dressing has been a useful and successful adjunct to the management of extensive infected and contaminated wounds.
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