RISK FACTORS OF SURGICAL SITE INFECTION IN ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS FOLLOWING LOWER LIMB SURGERY

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are serious complications in orthopedic surgeries, particularly those involving implants. These infections can significantly increase patient morbidity, prolong hospital stays, and add substantial costs to healthcare systems. Identifying and addressing the multifactorial risk factors for SSIs is essential for improving surgical outcomes and enhancing infection prevention strategies.

Objective: This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with SSIs in orthopedic implants following lower limb surgeries and to propose actionable strategies for prevention and management.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at two tertiary care hospitals. Data was collected from 152 patients undergoing lower limb orthopedic implant surgeries. Patient demographics, medical history, surgical practices, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed to determine significant associations with SSI incidence. Statistical tools were used to identify independent predictors of infection.

Results: The study identified extended operative times, patient comorbidities such as diabetes and obesity, smoking, preoperative anemia, and prolonged hospital stays as significant risk factors for SSIs. These findings reinforce the importance of both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors in SSI prevention. Strategies such as preoperative optimization, efficient surgical techniques, and enhanced postoperative care were highlighted as effective measures to reduce infection rates.

Conclusions: SSIs in orthopedic implant surgeries result from a combination of patient-related, surgical, and postoperative factors. Addressing these through comprehensive care protocols and advanced technologies can significantly reduce the incidence of SSIs, improving patient recovery and overall outcomes.