Review of Post Cesarian Section Surgical Site Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Recommended Citation
Alvi RB, Shanahan C, Ruby A, Chami E, Abreu Lanfranco O, Suleyman G. Review of Post Cesarian Section Surgical Site Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital. Open Forum Infect Dis 2025; 12(Supplement 1):S352-S353.
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
1-29-2025
Publication Title
Open Forum Infect Dis
Abstract
Background. Surgical site infection (SSI) is one of the most common complications following cesarean section (CSEC), variably ranging from 3% to 18%, and adds a significant burden to the healthcare system. Given its substantial implications, developing strategies to prevent SSIs are essential. We aimed to explore factors associated with an increased risk of these infections. Methods. Retrospective observational study of post-CSEC SSIs from Jan 2021-Dec 2023 at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. SSIs were defined according to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) criteria. Cases were categorized as superficial incisional (SI), deep incisional (DI) and organ space (OS). Demographics, risk factors, clinical features, treatment, and outcomes were Results. 70 (3%) of 2,230 CSECs performed during the study period met criteria for post-CSEC SSI, of which 42 (60%) were SI, 4 (6%) DI, and 24 (34%) OS; 42 (60%) were emergency cases. The majority of patients were Black with mean age of 30.3 years (Table 1). Obesity (BMI >30), anemia (hemoglobin < 11), hypertension, prior abdominal surgery, Group B Strep colonization, and ruptured membranes at presentation were common. Most (86%) received perioperative antibiotics, and 69% were administered within 1 hour of incision; cefazolin was frequently used. Infection was diagnosed after a median of 11.5 days. Wound pain and drainage were the most prevalent symptoms. Manual chart review revealed 21% of cases did not have clinical symptoms or signs of infection. Cultures were obtained in 33% of patients, of which 91% were positive; common skin commensals were frequently isolated (Figure 1). Readmission was common, a quarter of patients required surgical intervention, and most cases were treated with antibiotics (Table 2). Complications included uterine dehiscence (9%) and half of these required hysterectomy.
Volume
12
Issue
Supplement 1
First Page
S352
Last Page
S353
