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Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Skin and soft-tissue infections: impact of resistant gram-positive bacteria
1Veterans Administration Pittsburgh Healthcare System and Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, University Drive C (112), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15230, USA.
Abstract:
Surgical site infections remain significant causes of postoperative morbidity and mortality despite an improved understanding of risk factors and an increasing armamentarium of antimicrobial agents. The overall rates of surgical site infections have been slowly decreasing, but the proportion of infections with gram-positive bacteria continues to increase, and drug-resistant species continue to become more prevalent. Although new antibiotic classes have efficacy against such organisms, these agents are only short-term solutions to the problem of multiple-drug resistance. Surgeons must focus on prevention of infections by appropriately using antibiotics, emphasizing principles of infection control, and understanding nontraditional measures that may decrease infection risk.
Insights
Surgical site infections (SSIs) pose risks despite advances. Increasing gram-positive bacteria and drug resistance necessitate enhanced prevention strategies beyond new antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Outcomes
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major cause of postoperative complications.
- Despite advances in antimicrobial agents, SSIs remain a significant concern.
- The prevalence of gram-positive bacteria and drug-resistant strains in SSIs is increasing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the persistent challenge of surgical site infections.
- To emphasize the growing issue of gram-positive bacteria and antimicrobial resistance in SSIs.
- To advocate for comprehensive infection prevention strategies in surgical settings.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on surgical site infections.
- Analysis of trends in SSI causative agents and antimicrobial resistance.
- Discussion of established and novel infection control measures.
Main Results:
- Overall SSI rates are decreasing, but the proportion of gram-positive infections is rising.
- Drug-resistant bacterial species are becoming more prevalent in SSIs.
- New antibiotics offer temporary solutions to multidrug resistance.
Conclusions:
- Surgeons must prioritize SSI prevention through appropriate antibiotic use.
- Strict adherence to infection control principles is crucial.
- Exploring and implementing nontraditional measures can further reduce SSI risk.
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