Giselle Hosgood, DVM, BVSc, MS, PhD, FACVSc, DACVS

The use of active drains enhances the efficiency and minimizes the morbidity of wound drainage. Their use is indicated for removal of pre-existing fluid, ablation of dead space and prevention of anticipated fluid accumulation.

When making skin incisions or excising masses or wounds, always orient the long axis of the incision or ellipse along the line of skin tension.