Groin Surgical Site Infection in Vascular Surgery: Systemic Review on Peri-Operative Antibiotic Prophylaxis

Surgical site infections (SSIs) in lower extremity vascular surgeries, post-groin incision, are not only common complications and significant contributors to patient mortality and morbidity, but also major financial burdens on healthcare systems and patients. In spite of recent advances in pre- and post-operative care, SSI rates in the vascular surgery field remain significant. However, compliant antibiotic therapy can successfully reduce the SSI incidence pre- and post-surgery.

In October 2021, we conducted a systematic literature review using OVID, PubMed, and EMBASE databases, centered on studies published between January 1980 and December 2020. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses checklist. Inclusion/exclusion criteria have been carefully selected and reported in the text. For analyses, we calculated 95% confidence intervals (CI) and weighted odds ratios to amalgamate control and study groups in publications. We applied The Cochrane Collaboration tool to assess bias risk in selected studies.

In total, 592 articles were identified. After the removal of duplicates and excluded studies, 36 full-texts were included for review.

The review confirmed that antibiotic therapy, administered according to all peri-operative protocols described, is useful in reducing groin SSI rate in vascular surgery.