Comparison of isotonic saline, distilled water and boiled water in irrigation of open fractures

A prospective randomised study was carried out on 86 patients with first, second and third degree open fractures in order to compare the effect of isotonic saline; distilled water and boiled water as irrigating fluids. The standard management consisted of emergency surgical toilet, use of broad spectrum antibiotics and fracture immobilization. The results show that the outcome was not affected by the type of irrigating fluid used. © 1989 Springer-Verlag.