Incidence and Risk Factors for Surgical Site Infections Following Emergency Laparotomies: A Prospective Observational...

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Outcomes
• Public Health

Background:

• Surgical site infections (SSIs) are leading healthcare-associated infections.
• Emergency laparotomies present elevated risks for SSIs due to patient and procedural factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence, microbial profiles, and risk factors of SSIs in emergency laparotomy patients.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, observational study was conducted in an Indian tertiary care hospital.
• Data collected included patient demographics, perioperative practices, and outcomes.
• Microbial cultures and antibiotic sensitivity testing were performed on SSI cases.

Main Results:

• The overall SSI incidence was 17.12%, with 66% superficial, 29.5% deep, and 4.5% organ/space infections.
• Escherichia coli (34%) and Klebsiella (15.9%) were the most common pathogens.
• Significant risk factors identified: tobacco consumption, anemia, hypoproteinemia, obesity, and drain use.

Conclusions:

• SSIs pose a substantial threat following emergency laparotomies.
• Evidence-based protocols, including antibiotic prophylaxis and optimized perioperative care, are crucial for reducing SSIs, especially in resource-limited settings.