Syringe-based closed negative suction drainage for small surgical wounds: a case series and review of low-cost surgical innovation

Postoperative fluid accumulation within surgical wounds can lead to complications such as hematoma, seroma, surgical site infection, and delayed wound healing. Closed suction drainage systems are commonly used to prevent these complications by eliminating dead space and facilitating continuous evacuation of fluid collections; however, commercially available systems may not always be accessible in resource-limited settings. This prospective observational case series was conducted at B. D. Pandey District Hospital, Nainital, India, from January 2024 to June 2025, including 24 patients undergoing minor surgical procedures with anticipated dead space formation. A syringe-based closed suction drainage system was assembled using a disposable syringe and infant feeding tube to generate negative pressure drainage. The mean age of patients was 28 years, with 16 males and 8 females. Indications included excision of soft tissue swellings, minor reconstructive procedures, and closure of wounds with potential dead space. Mean drainage volume was 25 ml on postoperative day 1, 12 ml on day 2, and 4 ml on day 3, with a mean drain duration of 3 days. No hematoma or seroma formation was observed, while two patients developed superficial surgical site infection managed conservatively. Syringe-based closed negative suction drainage is a simple, safe, and cost-effective alternative for small surgical wounds, particularly useful in low-resource healthcare settings.