Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 14, 2025

In Vivo Mouse Model of Spinal Implant Infection
Published on: June 23, 2020
Incidence and Predictors of Surgical Site Infections Following Open Elective and Emergency Surgery: A Prospective
1Department of General Surgery, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, IND.
Background:
Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major contributor to postoperative morbidity, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where infection control practices may be less stringent. This study evaluated the incidence and predictors of SSIs in patients undergoing open surgeries at a tertiary hospital in Chennai, India.
Methods:
A prospective cohort study was conducted over a two-year period, including 250 patients who underwent open surgeries. Patients were monitored for SSIs from surgery until discharge. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, lifestyle factors, and surgical variables were collected. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictors of SSIs.
Results:
The overall incidence of SSIs was 22 (8.8%). Risk factors significantly associated with SSIs were diabetes mellitus 12/73 (16.4%), smoking 5/23 (21.7%), alcohol consumption 6/24 (25.0%), emergency surgery 10/53 (18.9%), and contaminated wounds 9/20 (45.0%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified several independent predictors of SSIs. Diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with a higher risk of SSIs (odds ratio, OR: 3.21, 95% CI: 1.41-7.30, p = 0.005), as was undergoing emergency surgery (OR: 2.93, 95% CI: 1.19-7.23, p = 0.020). The presence of contaminated wounds was found to be the strongest predictor, with an OR of 5.82 (95% CI: 2.01-16.87, p = 0.001). Smoking also showed a significant association with increased SSI risk (OR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1.01-6.29, p = 0.048). Additionally, a longer duration of surgery was independently associated with SSIs (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.07-3.21, p = 0.027).
Conclusion:
SSIs were associated with diabetes, emergency surgeries, contaminated wounds, smoking, and prolonged surgical duration. These findings may help guide targeted preventive strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies.
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...

