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Surgical site infection prevention: how we do it
Tjasa Hranjec1, Brian R Swenson, Robert G Sawyer
1Division of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA.
Surgical Infections
|June 4, 2010
Summary
Preventing surgical site infections (SSI) involves scientifically valid methods, alongside institutional practices. Standardizing protocols and data collection can enhance multi-disciplinary efforts to reduce SSI.
Area of Science:
- Infection control
- Surgical safety
- Evidence-based medicine
Background:
- Surgical site infection (SSI) prevention utilizes scientifically validated methods.
- Institutions and surgeons often employ unproven practices alongside established protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on preventing surgical site infections (SSI).
- To evaluate practices at the University of Virginia for their value in SSI prevention.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of surgical literature.
- Analysis of institutional practices for SSI prevention.
Main Results:
- Preventive antibiotics are standard; increased dosage for high BMI and re-administration for long procedures are suggested.
- Chlorhexidine showers and hair clippers are inexpensive with potential benefits; antiseptic use before incision lacks scientific basis.
- Maintaining normal blood glucose and core body temperature is important; leukocyte-reduced transfusions may reduce SSI risk, as may antibacterial sutures.
Conclusions:
- Numerous proven and potentially beneficial methods exist for SSI prevention.
- Standardized protocols and robust data collection are crucial for multi-disciplinary SSI reduction efforts within institutional contexts.
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