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An outbreak of post-surgical wound infections due to Mycobacterium abscessus
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi-110001, India.
Abstract:
An outbreak of post-operative wound infections due to Mycobacterium abscessus is described. During a 5-month period 45 post-surgical patients developed wound infection, manifested by wound breakdown, cellulitis, and discharge and progressing slowly to suppuration and sinus formation. The majority (43/45) had undergone out-patient operations, and 40 had had surgery in the inguinal region. The source of infection was identified as contaminated tap water. A study revealed serious deficiencies in the disinfection and sterilisation techniques employed in the operating theatre (OT), including major defects in the autoclaving machine. The outbreak was controlled after several specific measures were instituted. The patients responded well to treatment with conventional first-line anti-tuberculous drugs administered for 3-8 months. The report highlights the necessity of strict monitoring of disinfection and sterilisation techniques in surgical units and OTs.
Insights
A Mycobacterium abscessus outbreak caused post-surgical wound infections. Strict disinfection and sterilization protocols in operating theatres (OT) are crucial for preventing such serious infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- An outbreak of post-operative wound infections caused by Mycobacterium abscessus occurred.
- The infections manifested as slow-progressing wound breakdown, cellulitis, discharge, suppuration, and sinus formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an outbreak of post-operative wound infections due to Mycobacterium abscessus.
- To identify the source of infection and contributing factors.
- To outline control measures and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation of 45 post-surgical patients.
- Identification of the causative agent and source of infection.
- Assessment of disinfection and sterilization techniques in the operating theatre (OT).
Main Results:
- The outbreak involved 45 patients over 5 months, primarily those with outpatient inguinal surgery.
- Contaminated tap water was identified as the source of Mycobacterium abscessus.
- Deficiencies in OT disinfection, sterilization, and autoclaving were found.
Conclusions:
- Strict monitoring of disinfection and sterilization techniques in surgical units and OTs is essential.
- Prompt implementation of control measures and appropriate antibiotic treatment (3-8 months) can manage Mycobacterium abscessus infections.
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene is critical to prevent healthcare-associated infections.