Combined Use of Povidone-Iodine and Rifampicin in Hair Transplantation

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of the combined use of povidone-iodine and rifampicin for scalp antisepsis in hair transplantation. The study employed a randomized controlled design, involving adult patients undergoing elective hair transplantation procedures. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving the combined antisepsis protocol or a control group receiving standard povidone-iodine alone. The inclusion criteria included patients over 18 years of age, undergoing elective hair transplantation, and providing informed consent. Exclusion criteria included hypersensitivity to the antiseptic agents or active dermatological conditions on the scalp. The antiseptic agents were applied preoperatively before the transplantation procedure. Patients were monitored postoperatively at scheduled intervals, and the antisepsis process was documented using standardized photographic assessments. The total sample included 65 patients. The study duration involved approximately 14 days of follow-up. No interim analysis was conducted. The study protocol was approved by the Bahcesehir University Clinical Research Ethics Committee. This clinical protocol aims to contribute to the evidence base regarding the use of combination antiseptic protocols in minor surgical procedures.