[Results of a survey system for neurosurgical site infections, October 1998-January 2003]

In the neurosurgery setting, incidence of surgical site infections (SSI) are considered as low to moderately low (1 to 10%). These infections are nevertheless a major problem because of the associated morbidity and mortality. A SSI survey system has been initiated in our neurosurgical unit. We report the incidence of SSI and identified SSI risk factors.

Data collected included demographic and medical information recorded with the operating room computer system. Any SSI occurring during the patient's postsurgical hospital stay or observed at postoperative visits was notified using a standardized questionnaire. SSIs were registered using Centers for Disease Control criteria. A multiple logistic regression model was used to determine SSI incidence and evaluate risk factors for SSI. Results were reported to the neurosurgical team every three months.

From October 1998 to January 2003, 7399 operative procedures were collected. One hundred and twenty-two SSIs were notified with a mean incidence per patient of 1.65% (95% CI [1.37-1.95]). Among the SSIs 42% were superficial, 58% were deep or organ-space. Risk factors significantly associated with SSI were operation site (higher risk with CSF shunt), operation modality (higher risk with postponed operation) and operation duration greater than 75th percentile.

SSI are an important problem in neurosurgery. This SSI survey gave us fundamental information about SSI and risk factors. Complementary studies are now necessary about postponed operative procedures. Propositions are made to improve the system.