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Surgical Site Infection

Superficial, deep, or organ-space infections developing within 30 days (90 days with implants) of surgery.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Surgical Site Infection?

Surgical site infection (SSI) refers to infections developing within 30 days after surgery (90 days in cases of implants) at the surgical incision site or in the related organ-space area. According to CDC definition, it is divided into three categories: superficial incisional (skin and subcutaneous), deep incisional (fascia and muscle), and organ-space infections (operated organ or intra-abdominal area).

SSI accounts for approximately 20% of hospital-acquired infections and leads to significant increases in mortality, morbidity, hospital readmission, and healthcare costs in surgical patients. The most common causative microorganisms are Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and gram-negative enteric bacteria.

Risk depends on patient (diabetes, obesity, immunosuppression), operation (duration, cleanliness class, blood loss), and perioperative factors (timing of prophylactic antibiotics, body temperature, glycemic control, clipping instead of shaving). Prevention can be successfully reduced with a multifaceted quality bundle.

Symptoms

Redness and warmth at the incision site
Increased pain and tenderness
Purulent (pus-like) wound discharge
Wound dehiscence or edge separation
High fever and chills
Elevated white blood cell count and CRP
Findings of intra-abdominal abscess in deep or organ-space infection

Risk Factors

Diabetes and poor glycemic control
Obesity (BMI ≥30)
Smoking
Advanced age and poor nutritional status
Immunosuppressive therapy and steroid use
Prolonged operative time and blood transfusion
Contaminated or dirty surgery (appendix perforation, peritonitis)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Increasing redness and swelling at the wound site
  • Discharge or foul odor from the wound
  • High fever and chills
  • Abdominal pain with nausea-vomiting and pain at the operative site
  • Unexpected weakness and wound deformation after discharge

Treatment Methods

01
Preoperative measures: prophylactic antibiotic, normothermia, glycemic control, clipping instead of shaving
02
Drainage and dressing by opening the incision in superficial infection
03
Surgical revision and debridement in deep or organ-space infection
04
Culture sampling and appropriate systemic antibiotic therapy
05
Wound VAC (negative pressure) system with regular dressing changes
06
Nutritional support, glycemic regulation, and optimization of underlying comorbidities

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.