Clean/dirty scrub technique. Is it worth the effort?

An intraoperative critical incident occurred which questioned the validity of the practice of clean and dirty technique in bowel surgery and its role in the prevention of postoperative wound infections. Following the incident, a literature review and a clinical audit were conducted to determine the recommended use of this technique, and to explore its application in clinical practice. The results of the review and the audit are presented and a list of recommendations for practice is made.