- Surgical site infections (SSIs) are serious complications that occur following operations in approximately 5% of patients.
- Surgical site infections are one of the most common type of Healthcare Associated Infection (HCAI)
- Numerous factors influence the risk of a patient acquiring an infection in the surgical wound site post operatively.
- Prevention of Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Is dependant on many factors. These best practice initiatives have been proven by research to reduce risks and work best when combined together in a 'Care Bundle'
SURVEILLANCE
SSI surveillance is carried out using standardised definitions to allow hospitals and countries to compare rates of SSI. Definitions from the Centre for disease control (CDC) are the most commonly used in surveillance.
RISKS
While not all SSI are preventable, there is widespread agreement that certain actions can reduce rates of SSI substantially. Surgical technique, antibiotic prophylaxis, type of surgery and duration of procedure all impact on rates of SSI. Smoking, diabetes, obesity and diet impact on the healing process and can thus increase risks of post operative SSI.
PREVENTION
Many research papers have demonstrated that while not all SSI can be prevented, there are a number of well researched interventions that can significantly reduce the rate of infection post surgery3.
- De Lissovoy,, G. et al, 2009, ‘Surgical site infection: incidence and impact on hospital utilization and treatment costs’. American Journal of Infection Control, June 37(5): 387-97
- HPSC, 2012 Point prevalence survey of Hospital acquired infections and antimicrobial use, HPSC, Dublin
- How-to Guide: Prevent Surgical Site Infections. Cambridge, MA: Institute for Healthcare Improvement; 2012.