Incidence and predictors of surgical site infections following foot and ankle surgery

Abstract

Objectives: Surgical site infections (SSIs) have a significant impact on morbidity, mortality, and health-care expenditures. Therefore, the aims of the current study were to examine the incidence of SSI among patients who had foot and ankle surgery at large hospital in Riyadh and to identify predictors of SSIs. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. This is a consecutive study of patients underwent foot and ankle surgery between 2010 and 2014. The association between variables and infection status was analyzed using a logistic regression model. Results: The study included 295 patients. The incidence of SSI was 3.42%. The age and the type of surgery were significant predictors of SSI. Conclusions: Proper postoperative monitoring for high-risk patients may facilitate reduction of SSIs following foot and ankle surgery and improves health outcomes.