A Clinical Study on Microbiological Profile in Tracheostomy Wounds

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Infections

Background:

• Tracheostomy is a vital procedure for airway management, elective surgery, and ventilation weaning.
• Understanding the microbiological landscape of tracheostomy wounds is crucial for effective patient care and infection control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the microbiological profile and antibiotic sensitivity/resistance patterns in patients with tracheostomized wounds.
• To compare these patterns based on tracheostomy indications (obstructed vs. non-obstructed).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of tracheal aspirate cultures from adult patients who underwent tracheostomy between May 2022 and May 2023.
• Patients were categorized into obstructed and non-obstructed groups based on tracheostomy indication.
• Quarterly follow-up cultures were analyzed for a year post-antibiotic treatment.

Main Results:

• Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most frequent isolate (47.7%), with significant quarterly variations (p=0.006).
• In obstructed cases, P. aeruginosa (35%) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA; 23.5%) were most common.
• Predominant colonizers included Gram-negative bacteria (Acinetobacter, P. aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae) and fungi (Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger).

Conclusions:

• The study highlights a significant prevalence of P. aeruginosa and MRSA in tracheostomy-associated infections, particularly in obstructed cases.
• Gram-negative bacteria and Candida species are key colonizers, necessitating targeted antimicrobial strategies.
• Regular microbiological surveillance is essential for managing tracheostomy wound infections effectively.