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[Microbiological analysis of postoperative infectious complications]
S Di Palo1, E Pennacchioli, C Ossi
1Cattedra di Patologia Chirurgica, Università degli Studi di Milano.
Abstract:
A variation among the strains responsible of nosocomial infections was noted in the last years with a revival of Gram + bacteria. Coagulase-negative staphylococci assumed a great importance, particularly those resistant to methicillin. Staphylococcus epidermidis is now an important infective agent, especially in patients with prostheses or other devices. To value the impact of these microbiological variations on surgical patients, we studied data related to 1271 specimens from postoperative septic complication from 1980 to 1988. The incidence of Gram + strains in surgical infections was 46.8% in 1980-1983 period and 59.2% in 1984-1988 period with statistical significance (p less than 0.05).
Insights
Nosocomial infections show a rise in Gram-positive bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis. This shift impacts surgical patients, with Gram-positive strains increasing significantly in postoperative infections over the study period.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Nosocomial infections are evolving, with a noted resurgence of Gram-positive bacteria.
- Coagulase-negative staphylococci, especially methicillin-resistant strains like Staphylococcus epidermidis, are increasingly significant.
- Staphylococcus epidermidis poses a particular threat to patients with medical devices and prostheses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of changing microbiological trends on surgical patients.
- To analyze the incidence of Gram-positive bacterial strains in postoperative septic complications over a defined period.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1271 specimens from surgical patients with postoperative septic complications.
- Data collected between 1980 and 1988.
- Statistical comparison of Gram-positive strain incidence between two periods (1980-1983 and 1984-1988).
Main Results:
- The incidence of Gram-positive strains in surgical infections increased from 46.8% (1980-1983) to 59.2% (1984-1988).
- This increase was statistically significant (p < 0.05).
- Highlights a shift towards Gram-positive bacteria in the etiology of surgical site infections.
Conclusions:
- A significant rise in Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus epidermidis, is occurring in nosocomial infections.
- This microbiological shift has a demonstrable impact on surgical patients, increasing the risk of postoperative septic complications.
- Continuous monitoring of bacterial trends is crucial for effective infection control and patient management.