Is suction drainage necessary in elective total hip arthroplasty?

Introduction: Several studies have been published which questioned the use of suction drain during elective hip arthroplasty. Aim: In this prospective study the authors examined how the use of suction drainage affected complications related to perioperative blood loss and hemorrhage in patients undergoing elective hip arthroplasty. Method: Eighty-six patients undergoing elective hip arthroplasty were divided into two groups. In 54 patients ("drain" group) suction drains were used during operation, whereas in 32 patients no suction drain was applied. Perioperative blood loss, use of tranexamic acid, method of thrombosis prophylaxis, transfusion requirement, incidental postoperative hemorrhage, septic complications, and all other postoperative complications were recorded. Results: Perioperative blood loss was affected with the use of tranexamic acid but not with the use of drainage (p = 0.94). Patients without the use of drain showed a tendency of lower transfusion requirement (p = 0.08). There was no correlation between any complications and the use of drainage. Conclusion: In accordance with published results the authors conclude that the routine use of suction drainage during elective hip arthroplasty is not definitely necessary.