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Frequency of hepatitis B and C in patients undergoing elective surgery

Muhammad Rafique Memon1, Altaf Ahmed Shaikh, Aftab Ahmed Soomro

  • 1Department of Surgery, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College Hospital, Sukkur, Pakistan. drrafiqmemonsuk@yahoo.com

Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad : JAMC
|June 28, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Viral Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) affect many surgical patients. Screening and prevention are crucial to control the spread of these infections.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Viral Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) pose a significant global health challenge, impacting approximately two billion people worldwide.
  • These viruses are leading causes of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma, with increasing prevalence in Pakistan and globally.
  • The study addresses the growing concern of viral hepatitis spreading beyond endemic dimensions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the frequency of Hepatitis B and C infections among patients scheduled for elective surgical procedures.
  • To identify and evaluate potential risk factors associated with HBV and HCV transmission in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive study was conducted at the Surgical Department of Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College Hospital, Sukkur, from April 2009 to March 2010.
  • 913 patients admitted for elective surgery were screened for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Anti-HCV antibodies using immunochromatography (ICT).
  • Weak positive ICT results were confirmed using ELISA for accurate diagnosis.

Main Results:

  • Out of 913 patients, 3.61% tested positive for HBsAg and 12.8% for Anti-HCV; 0.98% were positive for both.
  • Hepatitis B was diagnosed in 2.3% of males and 1.3% of females; Hepatitis C was found in 7.44% of males and 5.36% of females.
  • Identified risk factors included parenteral injections by quacks, prior surgery, blood transfusions, and shaving by barbers.

Conclusions:

  • Emphasizes that 'Prevention is better than cure' for viral hepatitis.
  • Recommends pre-surgical screening and patient counseling to prevent HBV and HCV transmission.
  • Stresses the importance of adhering to ethical medical practices, using sterile disposables, and protecting healthcare workers and patients.
Abstract

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