Study Summary

Nine randomized controlled trials including 1223 patients and three cohort studies including 2152 patients undergoing primary knee or hip arthroplasty were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing hydrofibre dressings versus standard wound dressings. Pooled outcomes of interest included blister formation, infection rates, periprosthetic joint infection, total complication rate, number of dressing changes, and need for dressing change within five days after surgery. Hydrofibre dressings were associated with significantly lower rates of blister formation, periprosthetic joint infection, and total complications, while also reducing the number of dressing changes and early postoperative dressing replacements. Overall, hydrofibre dressings demonstrated superior postoperative wound outcomes compared with standard dressings, suggesting they may provide improved wound management following total knee or hip arthroplasty.