Management of perioperative infectious complications in the neurologic patient

Although most neurosurgeries are considered "sterile" procedures, anti-biotic prophylaxis is favored in the literature because of the potential for serious complications related to the central nervous system. There is a paucity of literature addressing the management of infectious complications related to neurostimulators and intraspinal/epidural catheters and pump; therefore, further studies are needed to develop standard protocols of care. Finally, perioperative complications in the patient undergoing a neuro-surgical procedure are similar to those undergoing any surgery, but have a higher potential for morbidity and mortality because of the central nervous system. The skill of the surgeon, care of the perioperative team, and knowledge of the neurologist remain the most important factors in the prevention, early recognition, and intervention of these complications.