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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
MRSA infection in lower extremity wounds
1Health Studies, PO Box 7017, Allentown, PA 18105, USA. Bree.Edris@lvh.com
The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds
|March 29, 2008
Summary
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) significantly prolongs lower extremity wound healing and increases adverse outcomes. Early screening and surveillance for MRSA are crucial for better patient management.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Wound Care
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common pathogen in wound cultures.
- MRSA infections are associated with delayed healing, poorer surgical results, and increased mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of MRSA in lower extremity wounds.
- To compare outcomes between MRSA-infected and non-MRSA-infected wounds.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Comparison of patients with MRSA-infected wounds to those with uninfected wounds (1:2 ratio).
- Collection and analysis of demographic, infection, and hospital stay data.
Main Results:
- 17 patients had MRSA infections, and 34 did not.
- MRSA-infected patients experienced longer hospital stays.
- MRSA-infected patients had a higher rate of adverse postoperative outcomes.
Conclusions:
- MRSA infection negatively impacts patient hospital course.
- Preoperative MRSA screening is recommended.
- Postoperative surveillance for MRSA is advised to control its spread.
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