Vol. 3, Issue 1, Part C (2019)

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) represent a significant complication following orthopedic procedures, often resulting in prolonged hospitalization, increased morbidity, and elevated healthcare costs. Identifying modifiable risk factors and effective preventive strategies is essential to improving patient outcomes and reducing postoperative complications in orthopedic surgery.

Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology, Tagore Medical College, Chennai, from January 2018 to December 2018. A total of 200 patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgeries were enrolled. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were assessed to identify potential risk factors for SSIs. The occurrence of SSIs was confirmed based on CDC guidelines. Preventive strategies such as prophylactic antibiotics, skin preparation methods, and sterile protocols were documented. Data were analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression analyses.

Results: Of the 200 patients, 28 (14%) developed SSIs. Significant risk factors included diabetes mellitus (OR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.22-5.38; p = 0.012), smoking (OR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.03-4.73; p = 0.042), duration of surgery >2 hours (OR: 3.14; 95% CI: 1.45-6.78; p = 0.003), and improper preoperative hair removal (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 1.19-6.94; p = 0.018). Use of chlorhexidine-alcohol solution and adherence to preoperative antibiotic timing significantly reduced SSI incidence (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Surgical site infections in orthopedic patients are influenced by modifiable risk factors. Optimizing perioperative care, including glycemic control, smoking cessation, appropriate skin preparation, and timely antibiotic administration, significantly lowers SSI rates and improves patient outcomes.