Gas embolism after periproctal abscess incision and lavage with hydrogen peroxide − a case report Should the use of hydrogen peroxide in surgery be continued?

Abstract

Introduction: Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic solution still often used in surgical departments for lavage of wounds. Its use is nevertheless linked to an important risk of gas embolism. Such a case report has not yet been published in the Czech literature and awareness of this danger is low among surgeons.
Case report: The author describes the case of gas embolism in a 40 years old patient after lavage of a periproctal abscess incision with 3% hydrogen peroxide. The lavage resulted in a cardiopulmonary arrest with the need of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Fortunately, the patient recovered without any health consequences.
Conclusion: In the view of important risks and questionable and insufficiently proven benefits it may be the time to possibly reconsider the use of hydrogen peroxide in surgery and replace it with a different antiseptic agent.