Wound Cleaning With Peroxide

It is a commonly held belief, backed by some studies, that hydrogen peroxide is a useful wound cleanser. However, more recent studies have found hydrogen peroxide to be toxic, or deadly, to cells otherwise involved in healing. A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training suggests using a saline solution instead.

Infection

• Open wounds can be a source of infection, resulting from factors such as bacteria or the presence of debris or foreign objects. Sepsis is the body’s reaction to infection, in which blood clots form, which in turn can block blood flow to vital organs.

Debridement

• Hydrogen peroxide is useful in debriding the wound. Debridement is the process in which dead, infected or otherwise damaged tissue is removed. Debridement is important for open wounds to help remove debris and dead tissue that could infect the open wound.

Cytotoxicity

• Cytotoxicity refers to the destruction or death of cells. Several studies, including the 1996 study “Wound Care Management: Proper Protocol Differs from Athletic Trainers’ Perceptions,” have found hydrogen peroxide to be cytotoxic. The use of hydrogen peroxide on wounds can negatively affect the cells involved in trying to heal the wounds, thus delaying the healing process.

Advantages

• Hydrogen peroxide is highly accessible. It is cheap and found in many grocery stores and pharmacies. As a debriding agent, it is useful in clearing away debris that can cause infection.

Alternative

• Recent research has found the best practice for cleaning wounds is the use of saline, because hydrogen peroxide can lead to cytotoxcity. Most pharmacies and grocery stores have saline solution available and it can be as inexpensive as hydrogen peroxide.

Recommended Practice

• Clean the wound with saline solution and cover with a fresh, sterile gauze or bandage at least twice a day, until the wound is healed. Do not clean the wound with hydrogen peroxide.