European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a common nosocomial infection, leading to increased costs, morbidity, and mortality in surgical patients. Surveillance and feedback to medical staff are vital in reducing SSI rates. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of SSIs in the Department of Surgery at Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam. Aims and Objectives: To determine the incidence and types of SSIs following abdominal surgeries. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included patients admitted to the general surgery units at the Department of General Surgery, Andhra Medical College, King George Hospital, Visakhapatnam, for over one year. A total of 553 elective surgical patients and 314 emergency surgical patients were part of the study. Results: The study revealed a 11% prevalence of SSIs in the Department of General Surgery at Fakir Mohan Medical College and Hospital, Balasore, Odisha. Superficial incisional SSIs were the most common, followed by deep incisional SSIs, and organ/space SSIs. Exploratory laparotomy was the surgical procedure most commonly associated with SSIs. Alarmingly, 20% of SSIs were linked to emergency surgeries compared to 7% in elective surgeries. Conclusion: SSIs have significant implications for patients and healthcare systems. Preventing SSIs requires a comprehensive approach, addressing pre-, intra-, and postoperative factors. It is essential for healthcare facilities to foster a culture of patient safety, with support from management teams, regulatory agencies, and medical associations.