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Hyperglycemia as a risk factor for surgical site infections in patients undergoing mastectomy

Diana Vilar-Compte1, Inés Alvarez de Iturbe, Alexandra Martín-Onraet

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases, National Cancer Institute, Mexico City, Mexico. diana_vilar@yahoo.com.mx

American Journal of Infection Control
|March 29, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Elevated blood glucose levels post-surgery increase the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) in mastectomy patients. Age over 50 and chemoradiation also elevate SSI risk.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Surgical Infections
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant complication following mastectomy.
  • Perioperative glycemic control is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between perioperative hyperglycemia and the incidence of SSIs in patients undergoing mastectomy.

Main Methods:

  • A nested case-control study included 260 patients undergoing mastectomy.
  • Five blood glucose measurements were collected per patient.
  • Prospective follow-up for at least 30 days was conducted.

Main Results:

  • Fifty cases (23.8%) developed SSIs.
  • A blood glucose value ≥ 150 mg/dL was associated with a 3.05-fold increased risk of SSI (OR = 3.05; 95% CI = 1.5 to 6.3; P = .006).
  • Independent risk factors for SSI included age >50 years (OR = 3.7), preoperative chemoradiation (OR = 2.8), and any blood glucose value ≥ 150 mg/dL (OR = 2.9).

Conclusions:

  • Postoperative SSIs are frequent after mastectomy.
  • Higher blood glucose values are an independent risk factor for SSIs.
  • Age >50 years and preoperative chemoradiation are also significant risk factors for SSIs.

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