Cationic detergents as antiseptics

Abstract

We wished to establish the value, if any, of the cationic detergents as antiseptics. We found that the primary value of alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, one of the cationic detergents, was its cleansing effect. Experiments seemed to confirm the findings of others, that it has a high bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect. Our clinical experiments showed that it can be safely used as a preoperative cleansing material for the surgeon's hands, as well as the operative field. We found it satisfactory for cleansing wounds in minor surgery. We have used it in cleansing infected wounds without signs of irritation to tissue. After using it over a year, we believe that alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, one of the cationic detergents, is a rapid, safe and effective surgical antiseptic.