Surgical site infections: A prospective study in a pediatric surgery center in resource-limited setting

This study aimed to measure the incidence of surgical site infections (SSI) in pediatric population, identify the primary characteristics and risk factors associated with SSI, and propose practical recommendations for controlling and preventing these infections.

A prospective study was conducted over a 4-month period from February 1 to June 1, 2024, in the Pediatric Surgery Department of Monastir. All patients admitted, operated on, and followed up in the department during this period were included, with specific exclusions. Data on patient demographics, surgical details, and outcomes were collected daily. Statistical analysis involved both univariate and multivariate approaches to identify significant risk factors.

Among the 414 pediatric patients included in the study, the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) was 3.3%, with an incidence density of 11.9 cases per 1,000 hospital days. The analysis of individual and surgical risk factors for SSI identified several significant associations: Neonates and infants (<2 years) were at higher risk (p=0.039), as were patients with drains (p=0.000) or gastric tubes. In terms of surgical risk factors, non-ambulatory surgeries (p=0.002), emergency procedures (p=0.013), surgeries classified as Altemeier class III or IV (13% vs. 2%, p=0.000), a higher NNIS score, and extended postoperative hospital stays compared to home discharges (p=0.001) were all associated with increased risk. Multivariate analysis revealed that the presence of a drain, age under 2 years, and an NNIS score of 1 or higher were independent risk factors for developing SSI....( abstract truncated at 250 words).