Incisional Surgical Site Infections after Colorectal Surgery: Time to Appraise its True Incidence

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) are the leading cause of complications in surgical patients. For colorectal surgery the reported incidence of SSI varies between 10 and 15%. This incidence however, has been challenged recently. In this study, we evaluated the incidence of incisional SSI after colorectal surgery in our department. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 115 non-laparoscopic colorectal resections between July 1^st 2004 and July 31^st 2005. After exclusion, 101 patients were retained. Demographic, clinical and operative variables were collected. Univariable and multivariable analysis were performed to identify risk factors for the development of incisional SSI.

Results: 21 SSI were diagnosed (20.7%). Seventeen cases were incisional SSI (16.8%). Multivariable analysis identified longer operation time (p = 0.014), pre-operative obstructive lung disease (p = 0.02) and fewer postoperative days on TPN (p = 0.04) as independent predictors of incisional SSI.

Conclusion: In comparison with recent publications, the incidence of SSI in our series was higher compared to what is generally reported.

Key Words:

• Surgical wound infection
• colorectal surgery

Additional information

Notes on contributors

G. Sergeant

Dr. G. Sergeant Mechelsestraat 24 2500 Lier, Belgium E-mail: [email protected]