A prospective study on surgical-site infections in thyroid operation

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Surgical Outcomes
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Surgical-site infections (SSIs) are a concern in elective thyroid operations.
• Understanding SSI incidence and microbial spectrum is crucial for prevention.
• Developing predictive models can aid in risk stratification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence and microbe spectrum of SSIs in thyroid surgery.
• To develop and validate a predictive model for SSI risk.
• To identify independent risk factors for SSI development.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 6,778 patients undergoing thyroid operations (2007-2012).
• SSI definition followed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria.
• Multivariable regression analysis and nomogram construction for risk prediction.

Main Results:

• Cumulative SSI incidence was 0.49% within 30 days.
• Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen.
• Operation duration and American Society of Anesthesiologists' score were independent SSI risk factors.

Conclusions:

• The incidence of SSI following thyroid operations is low (<0.5%).
• Operation duration and ASA score are significant predictors of SSI.
• Consider antibiotic prophylaxis for high-risk patients based on these factors.