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The First Recorded Pasteurella multocida Infection Post Abdominoplasty Through a Surgical Drain: A Case Report
Abstract:
The authors report the first case of postoperative Pasteurella multocida infection following elective standard abdominoplasty caused by indirect contamination from a cat-punctured surgical drain. A 51-year-old previously healthy woman underwent uncomplicated standard abdominoplasty but subsequently developed fever, erythema, and abdominal pain. Imaging, aspiration, and microbiological analysis confirmed infection with P. multocida. Further questioning revealed her house cat had punctured the surgical drain, which was subsequently repaired by the patient using superglue to restore negative pressure. Targeted antibiotic therapy led to rapid clinical improvement. This case highlights a novel infection transmission pathway and underscores the need for patient education regarding drain management in pet-owning households.
Insights
A rare postoperative infection caused by Pasteurella multocida occurred after abdominoplasty due to a cat-punctured surgical drain. Prompt antibiotic treatment resolved the infection, emphasizing pet owner education for surgical drain care.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Infections
- Microbiology
- Plastic Surgery Case Reports
Background:
- Postoperative infections can significantly impact patient recovery and outcomes.
- Standard abdominoplasty is a common elective surgical procedure.
- Surgical drains are frequently used but can be a potential source of infection.
Observation:
- A patient developed fever, erythema, and abdominal pain following an abdominoplasty.
- Infection was confirmed to be caused by Pasteurella multocida.
- The source of infection was traced to a surgical drain punctured by the patient's cat.
Findings:
- This case represents the first reported instance of Pasteurella multocida infection following abdominoplasty.
- Indirect contamination via a compromised surgical drain by a pet is a novel transmission route.
- The patient's self-repair of the drain with superglue did not prevent infection.
Implications:
- Highlights a unique infection pathway in plastic surgery patients with pets.
- Stresses the importance of educating patients on proper surgical drain management, especially in pet-owning households.
- Underscores the need for vigilance in diagnosing and treating rare postoperative infections.
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