[Postoperative wound infections : Diagnosis, classification and treatment]

Surgical site infections are a frequent complication of surgery and a severe burden for the patient as well as for the healthcare system. Sound knowledge of the disease pattern is an essential prerequisite for effective therapy.

This article presents an overview of the diagnosis, classification and treatment options for surgical site infections.

Based on the existing experience, the currently available evidence and pathophysiological considerations, an overview of the diagnostic possibilities, the existing classification systems and the treatment options is presented.

The diagnosis of surgical site infections is based on the clinical symptoms and can particularly be supported by the microbiological analysis of wound samples. There is no validated classification system but the definition of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is most commonly used. After initial bedside processing, debridement and wound cleansing are the basis for the further treatment, which is supplemented by the rational use of antiseptics and antibiotics. The use of modern dressings with the aim of maintaining a physiological moist wound environment promotes wound healing. The negative pressure wound therapy is an available treatment option. Rare diseases need to be considered.

The low level of evidence and critical consideration of the treatment options have been discussed in many guidelines, consensus documents and systematic reviews on the basis of which this article was written. Strengthening the evidence situation through intensive, targeted research should be the goal.