Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Saline Lavage Solution

Saline lavage solution mechanically cleanses and irrigates body cavities or wound sites using sterile saline to remove debris, bacteria, and foreign material.

Saline lavage solution mechanically cleanses and irrigates body cavities or wound sites using sterile saline to remove debris, bacteria, and foreign material. Used for Surgical wound irrigation and cleansing, Post-operative lavage.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Saline lavage is a physical irrigation technique that uses sterile 0.9% sodium chloride solution to flush out contaminated or infected areas. The solution helps remove necrotic tissue, bacteria, and other particulate matter, promoting wound healing and reducing infection risk. It is commonly used in surgical and post-operative settings as a supportive care measure rather than a pharmacologically active agent.

Approved indications

• Surgical wound irrigation and cleansing
• Post-operative lavage

Common side effects

• Electrolyte imbalance (if large volumes absorbed)
• Hypothermia (if room-temperature solution used in large volumes)

Key clinical trials

• A Clinical Trial Evaluating the Efficacy, Safety, and Pharmacokinetic Profile of TRD303 for Postoperative Analgesia After Abdominal Surgery in China. (PHASE3)
• Effect of Antiseptic Irrigations With 0.05% Chlorhexidine Gluconate (Irrisept) Versus Normal Saline on Fasciocutaneous Flap-Based Closure of Pilonidal Disease (NA)
• Volume Reduction for Open Fracture Irrigation (PHASE4)
• Evaluating Postoperative Pain and Antibacterial Effect of Ultrasonic and 980 nm Diode Laser Combination (NA)
• Adjunctive Keratinized Mucosa Augmentation in Peri-Implantitis (NA)
• Povidone-Iodine Nasal Irrigation After Surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis (NA)
• Evaluation of PLG0206 in Prevention of Recurrent Infection in Patients Undergoing Debridement, Antibiotics, and Implant Retention (DAIR) for Treatment of a Periprosthetic Joint Infection (PJI) Following Knee Arthroplasty (PHASE2, PHASE3)
• EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY AND TOLERANCE OF VASHE SOLUTION VERSUS SALINE SOLUTION IN THE TREATMENT OF VENOUS OR MIXED LEG ULCERS PRESENTING INFLAMMATORY SIGNS SUGGESTING HEAVY BACTERIAL LOAD (NA)

Primary sources

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