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Benefits of Povidone-Iodine Solution in Colorectal Operations: Science or Legend

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Diseases of the Colon & Rectum

Povidone-iodine solution (Betadine®) has long been accepted as an effective topical broad spectrum antiseptic, disinfectant, and tumoricidal agent. In colorectal operations, this solution generally has been used for the purpose of minimizing postoperative septic complications and reducing cancer recurrence, although the optimal application, advantages, and undesirable side effects have been debated. With limited prospective, randomized, controlled trials and insufficient data available, this article examines the safe and effective clinical applications of this solution for colorectal operations.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Colorectal Division, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

    Jirawat Pattana-arun M.D.

  2. Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, USA

    Bruce G. Wolff M.D.

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  1. Jirawat Pattana-arun M.D.
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  2. Bruce G. Wolff M.D.
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Correspondence to Bruce G. Wolff M.D..

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Pattana-arun, J., Wolff, B.G. Benefits of Povidone-Iodine Solution in Colorectal Operations: Science or Legend. Dis Colon Rectum 51, 966–971 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10350-008-9213-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10350-008-9213-8

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