Novel approaches to surgical site infections: what recommendations can be made?

Surgical site infections (SSI) are one of the most frequent healthcare-associated infections worldwide, representing a substantial burden on the healthcare system and the individual patient. Various risk factors for SSI have been identified, which can be separated into patient-related, procedure-related and other risk factors. Areas covered: Other risk factors relevant for SSI are the season in which surgery is performed, the volume of surgeries in a department, the working atmosphere in the operating room and the indications for surgery. Overall, the risk of SSI is higher during summertime. Higher-volume departments appear to be protective against SSI as does a calm working atmosphere. The frequency of certain types of surgery differs greatly among European countries. The decision to perform surgery appears to be dependent on the patient's condition as well as the healthcare system and financial incentives. Expert commentary: When possible, elective surgery should not be executed during summertime but during cooler times of year. Departments with a high volume of surgical procedures should be given preference. The establishment of a calm working atmosphere is beneficial to a surgeon's performance and can reduce SSI rates. The indications for performing surgery should be carefully reevaluated whenever possible.