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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in an Irish orthopaedic centre: a five-year analysis
S J Roche1, D Fitzgerald, A O'Rourke
1Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Merlin Park Regional Hospital, Galway, Ireland. sroche1975@yahoo.co.uk
Summary
This study tracked methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in an Irish orthopaedic unit over five years. Despite rising MRSA prevalence, overall infection rates remained stable, though hospital stays and financial burdens increased.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant challenge in healthcare settings.
- Understanding MRSA's impact on patient outcomes and hospital resources is crucial for effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the five-year impact of MRSA on an Irish orthopaedic unit.
- To assess MRSA prevalence, infection rates, patient outcomes, and financial implications.
Main Methods:
- Prospective five-year study.
- Analysis of 318 identified MRSA cases from 41,971 admissions.
- Tracking patient origins, colonization/infection status, and length of hospital stay.
Main Results:
- MRSA represented 0.76% of admissions, with 76% colonized and 37.7% infected.
- 36.6% of cases were colonized or infected on admission.
- MRSA infection nearly trebled hospital stay length.
- Overall infection rates did not significantly rise despite increased MRSA prevalence.
Conclusions:
- While overall infection rates were stable, the financial burden of MRSA is escalating.
- Effective control of this resistant pathogen requires further research and improved strategies.
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