What technique is typically used to prevent postoperative infection in surgical wounds?

The use of sterile instruments is a critical technique for preventing postoperative infections in surgical wounds. When surgical procedures are performed with sterile instruments, the risk of introducing pathogens into the surgical site is significantly minimized. This technique is fundamental to maintaining an aseptic environment during surgery, as sterile instruments are free from any infectious agents that could lead to complications such as wound infections.

Using sterile instruments is part of a broader protocol that includes proper hand hygiene and the use of sterile gowns, drapes, and gloves, all of which contribute to a sterile surgical field. The integrity of this sterile field is essential, as it helps to protect the wound from bacteria and other contaminants that could be present in the environment or on surgical staff.

Other methods, such as antiseptic application and routine cleaning, may also play a role in infection prevention, but they do not replace the necessity of using sterile instruments. Antiseptics help in killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria on the skin before the incision, and routine cleaning practices are critical in a surgical setting; however, the use of sterile instruments directly impacts the infection risk during the surgery itself.