Organ Space Surgical Site Infection Research Articles

IMPLEMENTING “BUNDLED INTERVENTIONS” IN REDUCING SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS AMONG PATIENTS UNDERGOING SURGERY FOR GYNECOLOGICAL INDICATIONS – A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Objective: Surgical site infection (SSI) is the most common infection among surgical patients. This study evaluated the impact of bundled interventions in reducing SSI rates in gynecological surgery. Therefore, it is a vital tool to improve patient safety. Methods: One hundred study participants were taken in the tertiary care hospital and divided into Group I and Group II. In Group I, 50 patients were involved in elective OT with bundled interventions, and in Group II, 50 controls operated in identical OT without bundled intervention. Incidence of SSI, type of SSI, antibiotic usage, need for secondary suturing, duration, etc., was noticed. Results: Our findings showed that six out of fifty cases developed the symptoms with a 10% SSI rate. Two had superficial SSI, and three had deep SSI. None of the patients had organ space SSI. In the control group, the SSI rate was 12%. The bundled intervention was associated with a significant reduction in infection rate. Conclusion: The study indicates that SSIs are associated with severe morbidity and mortality. It is a straightforward, feasible approach to the reduction of the SSI rate.

Obesity and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery: An ACS NSQIP Study.

Obesity is steadily increasing in the United States and is a risk factor for many medical and surgical complications. Literature is limited regarding obesity as an independent risk factor for perioperative complications after reconstructive pelvic surgery (RPS). This study aimed to analyze the association of obesity on 30-day perioperative complications after RPS. This was a database study comparing perioperative complications after RPS of obese versus nonobese patients using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Patients who underwent surgery for uterovaginal or vaginal vault prolapse were selected, and perioperative outcomes were compared between obese and nonobese patients. Obesity was defined as a body mass index ≥30 (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared). A total of 13,302 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study; 4,815 patients were obese, whereas 8,487 were nonobese. The overall rate of any 30-day postoperative complication was 6.8%, and the rate of complications did not differ between groups. Superficial and organ space surgical site infections were significantly higher in the obese cohort, whereas nonobese patients were more likely to receive a blood transfusion. A multivariable logistic regression model was performed with variables that were statistically significant on bivariate analysis and deemed clinically significant. Variables included obesity, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, current smoker, diabetes, hypertension, operative time, colpopexy, and obliterative procedure. After controlling for potential confounding factors, obesity was not associated with any 30-day postoperative complications after pelvic organ prolapse surgery. Obesity was not associated with 30-day postoperative complications after RPS after controlling for possible confounding variables.

Optimizing antibiotic management for patients with acute appendicitis: A quality improvement study

BackgroundTo decrease surgical site infections after appendectomy for acute appendicitis, preoperative broad-spectrum antibiotics are often used in clinical practice. However, this treatment strategy has come under scrutiny because of increasing rates of antibiotic-resistant infections. MethodsThe aim of this multisite quality improvement project was to decrease the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis with piperacillin-tazobactam without increasing the rate of surgical site infections. Our quality improvement intervention had 2 distinct components: (1) updating electronic health record orders to encourage preoperative administration of narrow-spectrum antibiotics and (2) educating surgeons and emergency department clinicians about selecting appropriate antibiotic therapy for acute appendicitis. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were compared 6 months before and after implementation of the quality improvement intervention. ResultsA total of 352 laparoscopic appendectomies were performed during the 6-month preintervention period, and 369 were performed during the 6-month postintervention period. The preintervention period and postintervention period groups had similar baseline demographics, vital signs, and laboratory test values. The rate of preoperative piperacillin-tazobactam administration significantly decreased after the intervention (51.4% preintervention period vs 20.1% postintervention period, P < .001). The rate of surgical site infections was similar in both groups (superficial surgical site infections = 1.4% preintervention period vs 0.8% postintervention period, P = .50; deep surgical site infections = 1.1% preintervention period vs 0.0% postintervention period, P = .06; and organ space surgical site infections = 3.1% preintervention period vs 3.0% postintervention period, P > .99). Rates of 30-day readmission, reoperation, and Clostridioides difficile infection also did not differ between groups. ConclusionOur quality improvement intervention successfully decreased piperacillin-tazobactam administration without increasing the rate of surgical site infections in patients with acute appendicitis.

Microbiome Dysbiosis with Enterococcus Presence in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract is A Risk Factor for Mortality in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer.

Recent retrospective studies suggest a role for distinct microbiota in the perioperative morbidity and mortality of pancreatic head resections. We aimed to prospectively investigate the microbial colonization of critical operative sites of pancreatic head resections to identify microbial stratification factors for surgical and long-term oncologic outcomes. Prospective biomarker study applying 16S rRNA sequencing and microbial culturing to samples collected from various sites of the GI tract and surgical sites of patients during pancreatic head resections at a German single high-volume pancreatic center. A total of 101 patients were included (38 non-cancer, 63 cancer patients [50 PDAC patients]) in the study. In a first data analysis series, 16S rRNA sequencing data were utilized from 96 patients to assess associations of microbiome profiles with clinical parameters and outcomes. In general, microbiome composition varied according to sampling site, cancer, age or preoperative ERCP intervention, notably for the bile microbiome. In the PDAC subcohort, compositional variance of the bile or periampullary microbiome was significantly associated with postoperative complications such as ICU admission; on a taxonomic level we observed Enterococcus spp. to be significantly more abundant in patients developing deep or organ-space surgical site infections (SSI). Elevated Enterococcus relative abundances in the upper GI tract, in turn, were associated with 6-months mortality rates. In a second step, we focused on microbiological cultures collected from bile aspirates during surgery and investigated associations with perioperative complications and long-term survival. Notably, Enterococcus spp. were among the most prevalent pathobiont isolates observed in cancer patient bile specimens that were associated with severe SSIs, and thereby elevated mortality rates up to 24 months. Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistulas or severe SSI were found as other major variables determining short-term mortality in this cancer patient cohort. In the context of adverse microbiological factors, a preoperative ERCP was also observed to segregate long-term survival, and it appeared to interact with the presence of Enterococcus spp. as highest mortality rates were observed in PDAC patients with both preoperative ERCP and presence of E. faecalis in bile aspirates. The presence of Enterococcus spp. in bile ducts of PDAC patients undergoing pancreatic surgery represents a significant risk factor for perioperative infections and, thereby, elevated postoperative and long-term mortality. This finding supports previous data on the use of the antibiotic drug piperacillin-tazobactam as appropriate perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis for preventing adverse outcomes after pancreatoduodenectomy.

How the COVID-19 pandemic affected the severity and clinical presentation of diverticulitis.

Single-institution studies showed that patients presented with more severe diverticulitis and underwent more emergency operations during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Therefore, we studied this trend using nationwide data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients (n = 23,383) who underwent a colectomy for diverticulitis in 2018 (control year) and 2020 (pandemic year) were selected. We compared these groups for differences in disease severity, comorbidities, perioperative factors, and complications. During the pandemic, colonic operations for diverticulitis decreased by 13.14%, but the rates of emergency operations (17.31% vs. 20.04%, P< 0.001) and cases with a known abscess/perforation (50.11% vs. 54.55%, P< 0.001) increased. Likewise, the prevalence of comorbidities, such as congestive heart failure, acute renal failure, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and septic shock, were higher during the pandemic (P< 0.05). During this same period, significantly more patients were classified under American Society of Anesthesiologists classes 3, 4, and 5, suggesting their preoperative health states were more severe and life-threatening. Correspondingly, the average operation time was longer (P< 0.001) and complications, such as organ space surgical site infection, wound disruption, pneumonia, acute renal failure, septic shock, and myocardial infarction, increased (P< 0.05) during the pandemic. During the pandemic, surgical volume decreased, but the clinical presentation of diverticulitis became more severe. Due to resource reallocation and possibly patient fear of seeking medical attention, diverticulitis was likely underdiagnosed, and cases that would have been elective became emergent. This underscores the importance of monitoring patients at risk for diverticulitis and intervening when criteria for surgery are met.

Outcomes Among Malnourished Patients With Crohn's Disease Undergoing Elective Ileocecectomy: A Nationwide Analysis.

Crohn's patients' nutritional status can be suboptimal given disease pathophysiology; the effect of a malnourished state prior to elective surgery on post-operative outcomes remains to be more clearly elucidated. This study aims to characterize the effect of malnutrition on post-operative outcomes and readmission patterns for Crohn's patients undergoing elective ileocecectomy using a nationally representative cohort. The colectomy-targeted National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database (2016-2020) was used to identify patients with Crohn's disease without systemic complications who underwent elective ileocecectomy; emergency surgeries were excluded. Malnourished status was defined as pre-operative hypoalbuminemia <3.5g/dL, weight loss >10% in 6months, or body mass index <18.5kg/m2 prior to surgery. Of 1464 patients (56% female) who met inclusion criteria, 1137 (78%) were well-nourished and 327 (22%) were malnourished. Post-operatively, malnourished patients had more organ space surgical site infections (SSI) (9% vs 4% nourished groups, P < .001) and more bleeding events requiring transfusion (9% vs 3% nourished, P < .001). 30-day unplanned readmission was higher in the malnourished group (14% vs 9% nourished, P = .032). Index admission length of stay was significantly longer in the malnourished group (4days [3-7days] vs the nourished cohort: 4days [3-5days], P < .001). Poor nutritional status is associated with organ space infections and bleeding as well as longer hospitalizations and more readmissions in Crohn's patients undergoing elective ileocecectomy. A detailed nutritional risk profile and nutritional optimization is important prior to elective surgery.

Risk of hysterectomy at the time of myomectomy: an underestimated surgical risk

To evaluate the risk of hysterectomy at the time of myomectomy, and the associated 30-day postoperative morbidity. Cohort study. Patients who underwent myomectomies identified from the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program from 2010-2021. Current Procedural Technology codes were used to identify myomectomies performed with or without concurrent hysterectomy. Pre-operative characteristics and morbidity outcomes were obtained. Univariate analysis was performed using Chi-Square and Fisher Exact as appropriate. Multivariable logistic regression reported risk factors for individuals undergoing hysterectomy at the time of myomectomy. P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. A total of 13,213 individuals had a myomectomy. 399 (3.0%) had a hysterectomy performed during myomectomy. Concurrent hysterectomy was most frequently performed (7.1%) with laparoscopic approach, followed by 3.2% and 1.9% with abdominal and hysteroscopic approach, respectively. Age ≥43 years, obesity class II and higher, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class greater than II, tobacco use, longer operative time (>85 min) and laparoscopic approach significantly elevated the risk of hysterectomy. When adjusting for age, body mass index, race, ASA class, case type, surgical approach, operative time, preoperative transfusion, preoperative hematocrit, and high fibroid burden, increased odds of hysterectomy was noted for White race, longer operative time, ASA class III or higher, obesity, laparoscopic approach and low fibroid burden. Patients who underwent concurrent hysterectomy had longer median length of hospital stay (2 vs 1 day), longer median operative time (161 vs 126 minutes), increased intraoperative/postoperative blood transfusions (14.5 vs 9.0%), higher organ space surgical site infections (1.5 vs 0.5%), and return to surgery (2.0 vs 0.7%) compared to patients who did not (p< 0.05). The risk of a major complication within 30 days of myomectomy was increased for patients who underwent concurrent hysterectomy after adjusting for relevant confounders (adjusted OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.8-3.2). Risk of hysterectomy during a myomectomy is higher than previously reported. Patient age ≥43 years, obesity, White race, ASA class III or higher, longer operative time, and laparoscopic approach were associated with higher odds of hysterectomy. Identification of patients with these risk factors can aid in patient counselling and surgical planning, which may help reduce the unexpectedly high rates of hysterectomy at planned myomectomy.

Development of machine learning models for the detection of surgical site infections following total hip and knee arthroplasty: a multicenter cohort study

BackgroundPopulation based surveillance of surgical site infections (SSIs) requires precise case-finding strategies. We sought to develop and validate machine learning models to automate the process of complex (deep incisional/organ space) SSIs case detection.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) admitted to Calgary, Canada acute care hospitals who underwent primary total elective hip (THA) or knee (TKA) arthroplasty between Jan 1st, 2013 and Aug 31st, 2020. True SSI conditions were judged by the Alberta Health Services Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) program staff. Using the IPC cases as labels, we developed and validated nine XGBoost models to identify deep incisional SSIs, organ space SSIs and complex SSIs using administrative data, electronic medical records (EMR) free text data, and both. The performance of machine learning models was assessed by sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, F1 score, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC AUC) and the area under the precision–recall curve (PR AUC). In addition, a bootstrap 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated.ResultsThere were 22,059 unique patients with 27,360 hospital admissions resulting in 88,351 days of hospital stay. This included 16,561 (60.5%) TKA and 10,799 (39.5%) THA procedures. There were 235 ascertained SSIs. Of them, 77 (32.8%) were superficial incisional SSIs, 57 (24.3%) were deep incisional SSIs, and 101 (42.9%) were organ space SSIs. The incidence rates were 0.37 for superficial incisional SSIs, 0.21 for deep incisional SSIs, 0.37 for organ space and 0.58 for complex SSIs per 100 surgical procedures, respectively. The optimal XGBoost models using administrative data and text data combined achieved a ROC AUC of 0.906 (95% CI 0.835–0.978), PR AUC of 0.637 (95% CI 0.528–0.746), and F1 score of 0.79 (0.67–0.90).ConclusionsOur findings suggest machine learning models derived from administrative data and EMR text data achieved high performance and can be used to automate the detection of complex SSIs.

A comparison of open or laparoscopic colectomy outcomes for the management of ischemic colitis using the ACS-NSQIP database

Ischemic colitis is a common manifestation of intestinal ischemia and is potentially a surgical emergency. Although such surgical emergencies were historically approached via open exploration, it is uncertain if there is a role for minimally invasive techniques. This study compares open vs laparoscopic colectomy techniques in the management of ischemic colitis. Using the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, patients with ischemic colitis undergoing colectomy from 2005 to 2019 were compared. The primary outcome of interest was 30-day mortality. Additional outcomes of interest were procedure related readmission, procedure related reoperation, length of stay, surgical site infections (SSI), septic shock, and other complications. Outcomes of interest were compared using multivariate logistic regression. 7,928 patients had ischemic colitis with 7,209 undergoing open colectomy and 719 undergoing laparoscopic colectomy. The mortality rate was significantly lower using a laparoscopic approach compared to open (6.4% vs 26%, p=<0.001) and associated with a lower odd of mortality (OR 0.58; 95% CI [0.35, 0.95]). Procedure related reoperation was lower in the laparoscopic group (6.5% vs 11%, p<0.001), but multivariate analysis was not significant (OR 0.65; 95% CI [0.43,1]). Readmission rates were not statistically different (12% vs 10%, p = 0.2). Postoperative length of stay (7 vs 12 days, p=<0.001), septic shock (6.7% vs 27%, p=<0.001), and organ space SSI (3.2% vs 6.9%, p=<0.001) were significantly decreased using a laparoscopic approach. 30-day postoperative mortality was significantly lower using a laparoscopic. Patients that had a laparoscopic colectomy had shorter hospital stays. While patients that underwent laparoscopic procedures tended to be less sick, multivariate analysis showed decreased rates of sepsis and surgical site infections compared to open colectomies when correcting for these factors. Laparoscopic colectomy may be a better surgical approach for patients with ischemic colitis compared to open colectomy.

Mesh Type With Ventral Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Trials

IntroductionSynthetic mesh is widely utilized for clean ventral hernia repair; however, it is unclear if synthetic mesh provides the same benefits with high-risk patients or during contaminated cases. Many surgeons use biologic mesh in these settings, but there is little evidence to support this practice. Our objective was to compare the clinical outcomes of utilizing biologic mesh versus synthetic mesh during ventral hernia repair. MethodsFollowing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, a review of the literature was conducted using Cochrane library, EMBASE, Clinicaltrials.gov, and PubMed for randomized controlled trials published that compared biologic versus synthetic mesh during ventral hernia repair. The primary outcome was major complications defined as deep or organ space surgical site infection, reoperations, and hernia recurrences. ResultsOf 1889 manuscripts screened, four publications were included. The four studies included a total of 758 patients, with 381 receiving biologic mesh and 377 receiving synthetic mesh. Compared to biologic mesh, synthetic mesh had lower rates of major complications (38.6% versus 23.4, risk ratio = 0.55, 95% confidence interval = 0.35 to 0.86, P = 0.009) and hernia recurrence (24.5 % versus 10.3%, risk ratio = 0.44, 95% confidence interval = 0.28 to 0.69, P = 0.004). In addition, there was a lower percentage of surgical site infection and reoperation in the synthetic mesh group. ConclusionsContrary to current surgical teaching, placement of permanent synthetic mesh into a contaminated field yielded rates of complications that were comparable or reduced compared to biologic mesh.

Predictors for surgical site infection in patients undergoing therapeutic or prophylactic intra-abdominal onlay mesh (IPOM) implantation in clean and contaminated surgical fields

BackgroundProphylactic intra-abdominal onlay mesh (IPOM) implantation has been shown to reduce the rate of fascial dehiscence and incisional hernia. However, surgical site infection (SSI) in presence of an IPOM remains a concern. The aim of this study was to assess predictors for SSI following IPOM placement in hernia and non-hernia abdominal surgery in clean and contaminated surgical fields.MethodsObservational study including patients undergoing IPOM placement at a Swiss tertiary care hospital 2007–2016. IPOM implantation was performed in hernia and non-hernia elective and emergency abdominal surgery, including contaminated and infected surgical fields. The incidence of SSI was prospectively assessed by Swissnoso according to CDC criteria. The effect of disease- and procedure-related factors on SSI was assessed in multivariable regression analysis, adjusting for patient-related factors.ResultsA total of 1072 IPOM implantations were performed. Laparoscopy was performed in 415 patients (38.7%), laparotomy in 657 patients (61.3%). SSI occurred in 172 patients (16.0%). Superficial, deep, and organ space SSI were found in 77 (7.2%), 26 (2.4%), and 69 (6.4%) patients, respectively. Multivariable analysis revealed emergency hospitalization (OR 1.787, p = 0.006), previous laparotomy (1.745, p = 0.029), duration of operation (OR 1.193, p < 0.001), laparotomy (OR 6.167, p < 0.001), bariatric (OR 4.641, p < 0.001), colorectal (OR 1.941, p = 0.001), and emergency (OR 2.510, p < 0.001) surgery, wound class ≥ 3 (OR 3.878, p < 0.001), and non-polypropylene mesh (OR 1.818, p = 0.003) as independent predictors for SSI. Hernia surgery was independently associated with a lower risk for SSI (OR 0.165, p < 0.001).ConclusionThis study revealed emergency hospitalization, previous laparotomy, duration of operation, laparotomy, as well as bariatric, colorectal, and emergency surgery, abdominal contamination or infection, and usage of non-polypropylene mesh as independent predictors for SSI. In contrast, hernia surgery was associated with a lower risk for SSI. The knowledge of these predictors will help to balance benefits of IPOM implantation against the risk for SSI.Graphical abstract

Risk Factors for Major Complications Following Minimally Invasive Surgeries for Endometriosis in the United States

To study the rate and risk factors for short-term postoperative complications of patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for endometriosis in the United States. Retrospective cohort study. American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2012 to 2020. Patients with endometriosis diagnosis. Laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis. We compared women with and without 30-day postoperative major complications, defined according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. A total of 28 697 women underwent MIS during the study period, of which 2.6% had major postoperative complications. Organ space surgical site infection and reoperation were the most common complications (47.0% and 39.8%, respectively). In multivariable regression analysis, African American race (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.61 [1.29-2.01], p <.001), hypertension (aOR 95% CI 1.23 [1.01-1.50], p=.036), bleeding disorders (aOR 95% CI 1.96 [1.03-3.74], p=.041), bowel procedures (aOR 95% CI 1.93 [1.37-2.72], p <.001) and hysterectomy (aOR 95% CI 2.09 [1.67-2.63], p <.001) were independently associated with increased risk of major complications. In multivariable regression analysis of laparoscopies without bowel procedures, African American race, bleeding disorders, and hysterectomy were independently associated with increased major complication risk. Among cases with bowel procedures, African American race and colectomy were independently associated with increased major complication risk. In multivariable regression analysis of women who underwent hysterectomy, African American race, bleeding disorders, and lysis of adhesions were independently associated with increased major complications risk. Among women who underwent uterine-sparing surgery, African American race, hypertension, preoperative blood transfusion, and bowel procedures were independently associated with increased major complications risk. Among women undergoing MIS for endometriosis, African American race, hypertension, bleeding disorders, and bowel surgery or hysterectomy are risk factors for major complications. African American race is a risk factor for major complications among women undergoing surgeries with and without bowel procedures or hysterectomy.

Intraoperative techniques to prevent deep incisional or organ-space surgical site infection after emergency surgery for nonappendiceal perforation peritonitis: a prospective two-center observational study.

The rate of surgical site infection (SSI) after surgery for secondary peritonitis is very high. This study investigated the relationship between intraoperative procedures of emergency surgery for nonappendiceal perforation peritonitis and deep incisional or organ-space SSI. This prospective, two-center observational study included patients aged ≥ 20years who underwent emergency surgery for perforation peritonitis between April 2017 and March 2020. We compared patients with deep incisional or organ-space SSI (Group S) to patients without SSIs or with superficial incisional SSIs (Group C). Thereafter, we evaluated the association between intraoperative technical variables and deep incisional or organ-space SSI using a multivariate logistic regression model. All multivariate analyses were adjusted for potentially relevant risk factors (e.g., age, body mass index, diabetes, smoking habit, and National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance risk index). Of the 75 participants, 14 were in Group S and 61 were in Group C. The use of a wound protector device was significantly associated with decreased odds of deep incisional or organ-space SSI (adjusted odds ratios [AOR], 0.017; 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.0014-0.19, p = 0.0011). A 1000ml increase in intra-abdominal lavage with normal saline was significantly associated with increased odds of deep incisional or organ-space SSI (AOR: 1.28, 95% CI 1.02-1.61, p = 0.033). Wound protector devices should be used in emergency surgery for nonappendiceal perforation peritonitis. Excessive intra-abdominal lavage with normal saline for peritonitis may have unsatisfactory benefits and increases the incidence of deep incisional or organ-space SSI.

Novel Intra- Operative Wound Irrigation Solution to Manage Infection Prevention in Patients Undergoing Primary Joint Arthroplasty: Retrospective Review of a Case Series of 308 Patients

Introduction Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip and total knee arthroplasty is a devastating complication that is known to be associated with costly, resource-intensive interventions that place a significant burden on the US healthcare system. Estimated average hospital costs to treat female patients with PJI after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA) in 2018 was $27,307, and $32,956 respectively. While the average costs to treat male patients with PJI after TKA or THA was $27,097 and $33,090 respectively. One strategy aimed at preventing PJI after total joint arthroplasty is the use of an intra-operative wound irrigation with an antiseptic solution. This retrospective case review was conducted to assess the incidence of PJI after using a novel wound antiseptic irrigation solution in patients undergoing primary TKA and THA. Methods The CDC defines surgical site infections, (SSI) as infections that occur after the surgery. The infections are further categorized as superficial involving the skin, or deep tissue. These infections are then divided into; superficial incisional SSI, deep incisional SSI, and organ-space SSI. In a study by Kannan et al., SSIs are more commonly seen in patients with more comorbidities. A consecutive series of 308 high-risk patients undergoing primary TKA or THA between January 4, 2021 and August 30, 2021, in whom Prontosan® Wound Irrigation Solution (B. Braun Medical Inc./ Innovice LLC), containing 0.1% Betaine, a surfactant, and 0.1% Polyhexanide (PHMB) was added to the intra-operative procedure, were evaluated for its impact on the incidence of PJI. The CDC’s Surgical Care Improvement Project, (SCIP) guidelines are standard of care and followed with each surgical procedure. The CDC recommends using antimicrobial prophylaxis at a time before skin incision such that the antibiotic concentration reaches the minimum bactericidal concentration at the time of skin incision, Berríos-Torres SI, et al. All data were prospectively submitted to the American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR) was retrospectively analyzed to measure the incidence of postoperative infection. Results Primary TJA was performed on 308 patients; of these 10 patients were bilateral TKA (205 TKA procedures and 113 THA procedures). The use of Prontosan® Wound Irrigation Solution was associated with zero (0%) incidence of postoperative infection in this population of patients during a 90-day episode of care, nor at any time postoperatively. CMS defines total joint arthroplasty codes as a major surgery, and encounters or procedures within 90 days of the initiating procedure are included in the 90-day episode of care. No patients were lost to follow-up. Conclusion There was no incidence of PJI uncovered in this retrospective analysis. Adding Prontosan® Wound Irrigation Solution to the intra-operative protocol, contributed to the absence of PJI in this population and potentially avoided 1.74 female and 1.34 male TKA as well as .95 female and .75 THA resulting in total hospital-avoided costs of $83,824 and $56,126, respectively totaling $139,950.

Chemical Bowel Preparation Exerts an Independent Preventive Effect Against Surgical Site Infection Following Elective Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery.

We investigated the independent clinical value of mechanical bowel preparations (MBP) and chemical bowel preparations (CBP) for preventing surgical site infection (SSI) in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery. This retrospective cohort study included 475 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery between January 2018 and March 2022. CBP was introduced in January 2021 and included kanamycin (1g) and metronidazole (1g) 2 times a day, the day before surgery. In some cases, MBP was omitted in patients who planned to undergo right-sided colectomy, those with tumor obstruction, and those with poor general conditions, depending on the judgment of the physician. The primary endpoint was the overall SSI incidence, while the secondary endpoints were the incidences of incisional SSI and organ-space SSI, culture from the surgical site, and length of postoperative hospital stay. In total, 136 patients underwent CBP. MBP was omitted in 53 patients. Overall, SSI occurred in 80 patients (16.8%), including 61 cases of incisional SSI (12.8%) and 36 cases of organ-space SSI (7.6%). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that CBP exerted an independent preventive effect on overall and incisional SSI, whereas MBP did not. However, CBP was not associated with a decreased risk of overall SSI in patients who had undergone preoperative therapy, those with benign disease, and those with stoma formation in the subgroup analysis. Levels of Bacteroides species at the surgical site were significantly lower in the CBP group than in the non-CBP group. Postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in the incisional SSI group than in the non-SSI group and was significantly longer in the organ-space SSI group than in the other groups. CBP, but not MBP, exerts an independent preventive effect on SSI, especially incisional SSI, in patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Effect of Present at Time of Surgery (PATOS) on Outcomes in Pancreatic Surgery

IntroductionWhile there is some data available on the importance of accounting for the effect of present at time of surgery (PATOS) when estimating unadjusted postoperative complication rates, little is known about the impact of PATOS on outcomes in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery specifically. By taking PATOS into account, we hypothesized that unadjusted, observed postoperative complication rates might be reduced, with these reductions being different across outcomes; however, we expected fewer differences in risk-adjusted results, i.e., observed to expected ratios (O/E ratios). MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the ACS NSQIP Participant Use Files (PUFs) from 2015 to 2019. PATOS data were analyzed for the 8 postoperative complications of superficial, deep, and organ space surgical site infection; pneumonia; urinary tract infection; ventilator dependence; sepsis; and septic shock. Postoperative complication rates were compared by ignoring PATOS vs. taking PATOS into account. ResultsOf the 31,919 patients in the ACS NSQIP PUFs who underwent pancreatic surgery, 1120 (3.51%) patients had one or more PATOS conditions. The event rates after taking PATOS into account declined for all outcomes—superficial surgical site infection (SSI) rates reduced by 2.56%, deep SSI rates reduced by 4.28%, organ space SSI rates reduced by 9.31%, pneumonia rates reduced by 2.91%, urinary tract infection rates declined by 4.69%, and septic shock rates declined by 9.27%. ConclusionOur paper highlights that accounting for PATOS is important for estimating unadjusted postoperative complication rates in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. Risk adjustment is essential to any attempt at quality assessment and benchmarking. Failure to account for PATOS may penalize surgeons who care for the sickest and most complicated patients and subsequently encourage cherry-picking of less risky patients and procedures.

180. Did The National Ban On Bacitracin Irrigation Affect Infection Rates In Implant-based Breast Reconstruction? An Analysis Of A National Database

PURPOSE: The current standard of practice in implant-based breast reconstruction is irrigation of the mastectomy pocket with antimicrobial solution before implant placement. Prior to being banned and formally recalled in January 2020, bacitracin was a very commonly utilized antibiotic. This study characterizes the effects of the national bacitracin ban on implant-based breast reconstruction infection rates by using a nationwide database to compare complication rates before and after bacitracin was banned. METHODS: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement (ACS-NSQIP) database was queried retrospectively for all patients who underwent implant-based breast reconstruction before the bacitracin ban (2012-2019) and afterwards (2020). Demographics, comorbidities, and complications were collected. Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis were conducted to determine if there were significant changes in wound complications, local wound infections, and systemic infections between the two case-control matched cohorts. RESULTS: A total of 37,126 patients were in the pre-ban cohort and 6,333 patients were in the post-ban cohort. Before matching, there were significant differences in race distribution, BMI, ASA class, inpatient versus outpatient status, preoperative smoking, and preoperative diabetes mellitus (all p<0.05). After case-control matching, there were 6,313 patients in each cohort. Univariate analysis revealed differences in postoperative superficial and organ space surgical site infection, wound complications/infections, all cause complications, and reoperations (all p<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that patients who underwent breast reconstruction before the ban had decreased odds of having wound infections, related infections, all cause complications, and reoperations (all p<0.05). CONCLUSION: This study provides a macroscopic view into the effects of the formal injectable bacitracin ban on breast reconstruction outcomes. Patients who underwent implant-based breast reconstruction after the ban of injectable bacitracin had higher odds of developing wound infections, related infections, and reoperations. More study into suitable alternatives to injectable bacitracin for surgical site antimicrobial irrigation is warranted.

Safety of early pelvic drain removal in colorectal surgery based on drainage quantity

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the association between the drainage quantity of pelvic drains and postoperative complications in colorectal surgery.Materials and methodsThis retrospective single-center study enrolled 122 colorectal surgery patients between January 2017 and December 2020. After restorative proctectomy or proctocolectomy with gastrointestinal anastomosis, a continuous, low-pressure suction pelvic drain was placed and its contents measured. Removal ensued following the absence of turbidity and a drainage quantity of ≤ 150 mL/day.ResultsSeventy-five patients (61.5%) and 47 patients (38.5%) underwent restorative proctectomy and proctocolectomy, respectively. Drainage quantity changes were observed on postoperative day (POD) 3, regardless of the surgical procedure or postoperative complications. The median (interquartile range) number of PODs before drain removal and organ-space surgical site infection (SSI) diagnosis were 3 (3‒5) and 7 (5‒8), respectively. Twenty-one patients developed organ-space SSIs. Drains were left in place in two patients after POD 3 owing to large drainage quantities. Drainage quality changes enabled diagnosis in two patients (1.6%). Four patients responded to therapeutic drains (3.3%).ConclusionsThe drainage quantity of negative-pressure closed suction drains diminishes shortly after surgery, regardless of the postoperative course. It is not an effective diagnostic or therapeutic drain for organ-space SSI. This supports early drain removal based on drainage quantity changes in actual clinical practice.Trial registrationThe study protocol was retrospectively registered and carried out per the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Hiroshima University Institutional Review Board (approval number: E-2559).

Evaluation of Perioperative Factors Contributing to Organ Space Surgical Site Infection After Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy [ID: 1374862

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative organ space surgical site infection (oSSI), commonly referred to as pelvic abscess, is a clinically impactful complication after hysterectomy. Although more common in open hysterectomies, oSSIs occur in minimally invasive hysterectomy (MIH), contributing to morbidity. In the current study, we evaluate perioperative factors contributing to development of oSSIs in patients undergoing MIH. METHODS: From 2016 to 2022, a multicenter retrospective analysis of patients undergoing MIH was conducted. Patient characteristics, preexisting conditions, surgical history, intraoperative factors, and type of MIH were evaluated to determine factors contributing to the development of oSSI. RESULTS: One thousand one hundred eighty-nine patients underwent MIH. 28 patient (2.4%) developed oSSI. There was no difference in age or body mass index between groups (P&gt;.05) and no difference in the incidence of oSSI based on type of MIH (P=.832). Patients with endometriosis were more likely to develop oSSI (4.9% versus 2.0%, P=.045, odds ratio [OR] 2.49, 95% CI 1.98–6.25). A diagnosis of cancer did not affect oSSI (3.9% versus 2.1%, P=.162, OR 1.90, 95% CI 0.76–4.78). History of diabetes, hypertension, cesarean delivery, prior laparoscopy, prior laparotomy, smoking, or obesity did not affect the incidence of oSSI (P&lt;.05). Patients developing oSSI had a greater mean intraoperative estimated blood loss (EBL) (233.55 cc versus 94.3 cc, P&lt;.001), greater mean length of stay (LOS) (2.4 versus 0.9 days, P&lt;.001), higher incidence of post-operative ileus (15.8% versus 0.7%, P&lt;.001) and blood transfusion (34.6% versus 1.0%, P&lt;.001). CONCLUSION: Development of oSSI is associated with preexisting endometriosis and greater intraoperative EBL. Development of oSSI was associated with greater LOS, postoperative ileus, and blood transfusions. Attention to hemostasis may reduce rates of oSSI.

Laparoscopic Liver Resection Procedure Attenuates Organ-space Surgical Site Infection Compared With Open Procedure: A Propensity Score-matched Analysis.

Theoretically, laparoscopic procedures reduce the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) compared with open surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) attenuates organ-space SSI compared with open liver resection (OLR) using propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis. This study included 530 patients who underwent liver resection as the original cohort. PSM was conducted to adjust for confounding factors between OLR and LLR. Two groups were compared regarding the incidence of postoperative complications, including organ-space SSI. We also evaluated risk factors for organ-space SSI using univariate and multivariate analyses. In the original cohort, incidence of bile leakage (p<0.001) and organ-space SSI (p<0.001) were significantly lower in the LLR group than those in the OLR group. A pair of 105 patients were selected for the PSM analysis. After matching, LLR was significantly associated with lower blood loss (p<0.001), longer Pringle clamp time (p<0.001), lower incidence of bile leakage (p=0.035), organ-space SSI (p=0.035), Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III complications (p=0.005), and longer length of hospital stay (p<0.001) than OLR. In multivariate analysis, OLR (p=0.045) was an independent risk factor for organ-space SSI. LLR has potential to reduce the risk of organ-space SSI caused by intra-abdominal abscess and bile leakage more than OLR.