Outcome of a strategy to reduce surgical site infection in a tertiary-care hospital

3D Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration with primary repair by absorbable barbed suture is safe and feasible

Background and aim

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), with interval laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), is the most common treatment approach for common bile duct (CBD) stones. However, recent studies show that single-stage laparoscopic CBD exploration (LCBDE) is safe and feasible. Three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopy enhances depth perception and facilitates intracorporeal suturing. The application of 3D technology for LCBDE is emerging, and we report our case series of 3D LCBDE.

Methods

We audited the 27 consecutive 3D LCBDE performed from July 2017 to January 2020. We have a liberal policy for magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) in patients with deranged liver function tests (LFT). All CBD explorations were done through choledochotomy with a 5 mm flexible choledochoscope and primarily repaired with an absorbable barbed suture without a stent or T-tube.

Results

The mean age of patients was 68 (range 44-91) years, and 12 (44%) were male. The indications for surgery were choledocholithiasis 67% (n=18), cholangitis 22% (n=6), and gallstone pancreatitis 11% (n=3). About 67% (n=18) had pre-operative ERCP. About 37% (n=10) had pre-operative biliary stent. Pre-operative MRCP was done in 74% (n=20), and the mean diameter of CBD was 14.5 mm (range 7-30). The median operative time was 160 (range 80-265) min. The operative drain was inserted in 18 patients. One patient each (4%) had a bile leak and a retained stone. There was no open conversion, readmission, or mortality.

Conclusion

3D LCBDE with primary repair by an absorbable barbed suture is safe and feasible.

Relevance for patients

This paper emphasized that one stage LCBDE should be a treatment option which is comparable with two stage ERCP followed by LC to treat CBD stones. In addition, 3D technology and barbed sutures use in LCBDE are safe and useful.

Colorectal bundles for surgical site infection prevention: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

In colorectal surgery, the composition of the most effective bundle for prevention of surgical site infections (SSI) remains uncertain. We performed a meta-analysis to identify bundle interventions most associated with SSI reduction.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed 4 databases for studies that assessed bundles with ≥3 elements recommended by clinical practice guidelines for adult colorectal surgery. The main outcome was 30-day postoperative SSI rate (overall, superficial, deep, and/or organ-space).

RESULTS

We included 40 studies in the qualitative review, and 35 studies (54,221 patients) in the quantitative review. Only 3 studies were randomized controlled trials. On meta-analyses, bundles were associated with overall SSI reductions of 44% (RR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.48-0.65); superficial SSI reductions of 44% (RR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.42-0.75); deep SSI reductions of 33% (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.46-0.98); and organ-space SSI reductions of 37% (RR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.50-0.81). Bundle composition was heterogeneous. In our meta-regression analysis, bundles containing ≥11 elements, consisting of both standard of care and new interventions, demonstrated the greatest SSI reduction. Separate instrument trays, gloves with and without gown change for wound closure, and standardized postoperative dressing change at 48 hours correlated with the highest reductions in superficial SSIs. Mechanical bowel preparation combined with oral antibiotics, and preoperative chlorhexidine showers correlated with highest organ-space SSI reductions.

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive bundles emphasizing guideline-recommended elements from both standard of care as well as new interventions were most effective for SSI reduction following colorectal surgery. High clinical-bundle heterogeneity and low quality for most observational studies significantly limit our conclusion.

Implementation interventions in preventing surgical site infections in abdominal surgery: a systematic review

Background

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are highly prevalent in abdominal surgery despite evidence-based prevention measures. Since guidelines are not self-implementing and SSI-preventive compliance is often insufficient, implementation interventions have been developed to promote compliance. This systematic review aims to identify implementation interventions used in abdominal surgery to prevent SSIs and determine associations with SSI reductions.

Methods

Literature was searched in April 2018 (Medline/PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection). Implementation interventions were classified using the implementation subcategories of the EPOC Taxonomy (Cochrane Review Group Effective Practice and Organisation of Care, EPOC). Additionally, an effectiveness analysis was conducted on the association between the number of implementation interventions, specific compositions thereof, and absolute and relative SSI risk reductions.

Results

Forty studies were included. Implementation interventions used most frequently (“top five”) were audit and feedback (80% of studies), organizational culture (70%), monitoring the performance of healthcare delivery (65%), reminders (53%), and educational meetings (45%). Twenty-nine studies (72.5%) used a multimodal strategy (≥3 interventions). An effectiveness analysis revealed significant absolute and relative SSI risk reductions. E.g., numerically, the largest absolute risk reduction of 10.8% pertained to thirteen studies using 3–5 interventions (p < .001); however, this was from a higher baseline rate than those with fewer or more interventions. The largest relative risk reduction was 52.4% for studies employing the top five interventions, compared to 43.1% for those not including these. Furthermore, neither the differences in risk reduction between studies with different numbers of implementation interventions (bundle size) nor between studies including the top five interventions (vs. not) were significant.

Conclusion

In SSI prevention in abdominal surgery, mostly standard bundles of implementation interventions are applied. While an effectiveness analysis of differences in SSI risk reduction by number and type of interventions did not render conclusive results, use of standard interventions such as audit and feedback, organizational culture, monitoring, reminders, and education at least does not seem to represent preventive malpractice. Further research should determine implementation interventions, or bundles thereof, which are most effective in promoting compliance with SSI-preventive measures in abdominal surgery.

Patient reporting of complications after surgery: what impact does documenting postoperative problems from the perspective of the patient using telephone interview and postal questionnaires have on the identification of complications after surgery?

OBJECTIVES

To identify the frequency of postoperative complications, including problems identified by patients and complications occurring after discharge from hospital. To identify how these impact on quality of life (QoL) and the patient's perception of the success of their treatment.

DESIGN

Data from three prospective sources: surgical audit, a telephone interview (2 weeks after discharge) and a patient-focused questionnaire (2 months after surgery) were retrospectively analysed.

SETTING

Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand.

PARTICIPANTS

Of the 500 patients, 100 undergoing each of the following types of surgeries: anorectal, biliary, colorectal, hernia and skin.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes were complications and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Secondary outcomes included the patient's ratings of their treatment and a questionnaire-derived patient satisfaction score.

RESULTS

226 patients reported a complication; there were 344 separate complications and 411 reports of complications (16% of complications were reported on more than one occasion). The audit, telephone interview and questionnaire captured 12.6%, 36.3% and 51% of the 411 reports, respectively. Patients with complications had a lower SF-36 Physical Composite Summary (PCS) score (48.5 vs 43.9, p=0.021) and a lower Patient Satisfaction Score (85.6 vs 74.6, p<0.001). Rating of information received, care received, symptoms experienced, QoL and satisfaction with surgery were all significantly worse for patients with complications. On linear regression analysis, surgical complications, American Society of Anaesthesiologists score and age all made a similar contribution to the SF-36 PCS score, with standardised beta coefficients between 0.19 and 0.21.

CONCLUSIONS

Following surgery, over 40% of patients experienced complications. The QoL and satisfaction score were significantly less than for those without complications. The majority of complications were diagnosed after discharge from hospital. Taking more notice of the patient perspective helps us to identify problems, to understand what is important to them and may suggest ways to improve perioperative care.

Preoperative Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Plus Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts the Outcomes after Curative Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

In recent years, inflammation-based scoring systems have been reported to predict survival in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). The aim of our study was to validate combined preoperative Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte ratio (NLR)-Platelet-to-Lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting overall survival (OS) and recurrence free survival (RFS) in patients who underwent curative resection for HCC.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of HCC patients underwent liver resection with curative intent from January 2010 to December 2013. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the optimal cut-off values for NLR and PLR. Patients with both NLR and PLR elevated were allocated a score of 2; patients showing one or neither of these indices elevated were accorded a score of 1 or 0, respectively.

RESULTS

132 patients with a median age of 66 years (range 18-87) underwent curative resection for HCC. Overall morbidity was 30.3%, 30-day mortality was 2.3%, and 90-day mortality was 6.8%. At a median follow-up of 24 months (range 1-88), 25% patients died, and 40.9% had recurrence. On multivariate analysis, elevated preoperative NLR-PLR was predictive of both OS (HR 2.496; CI 1.156-5.389; p=0.020) and RFS (HR 1.917; CI 1.161-3.166; p=0.011). The 5-year OS was 76% for NLR-PLR=0 group, 21.7% for the NLR-PLR=1 group, and 61.1% for the NLR-PLR=2 group, respectively. The 5-year RFS was 39.3% for the NLR-PLR=0 group, 18.4% for the NLR-PLR=1 group, and 21.1% for the NLR-PLR=2 group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The preoperative NLR-PLR is predictive of both OS and RFS in patients with HCC undergoing curative liver resection.

Implementation strategies to reduce surgical site infections: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Surgical site infections (SSIs) portend high patient morbidity and mortality. Although evidence-based clinical interventions can reduce SSIs, they are not reliably delivered in practice, and data are limited on the best approach to improve adherence.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize implementation strategies aimed at improving adherence to evidence-based interventions that reduce SSIs.

DESIGN

Systematic reviewMethods:We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, the WHO Regional databases, AFROLIB, and Africa-Wide for studies published between January 1990 and December 2015. The Effective Practice and Organization Care (EPOC) criteria were used to identify an acceptable-quality study design. We used structured forms to extract data on implementation strategies and grouped them into an implementation model called the "Four Es" framework (ie, engage, educate, execute, and evaluate).

RESULTS

In total, 125 studies met our inclusion criteria, but only 8 studies met the EPOC criteria, which limited our ability to identify best practices. Most studies used multifaceted strategies to improve adherence with evidence-based interventions. Engagement strategies included multidisciplinary work and strong leadership involvement. Education strategies included various approaches to introduce evidence-based practices to clinicians and patients. Execution strategies standardized the interventions into simple tasks to facilitate uptake. Evaluation strategies assessed adherence with evidence-based interventions and patient outcomes, providing feedback of performance to providers.

CONCLUSIONS

Multifaceted implementation strategies represent the most common approach to facilitating the adoption of evidence-based practices. We believe that this summary of implementation strategies complements existing clinical guidelines and may accelerate efforts to reduce SSIs.

Implementation of temporal lobe contouring protocol in head and neck cancer radiotherapy planning: A quality improvement project

Temporal lobe necrosis as result of radiation for nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) occurs up to 28% of NPC patients. The only effective mitigation is by strict adherence to temporal lobe dose tolerances during radiotherapy planning, which in turn hinges on accurate temporal lobe delineation. We aim to improve the accuracy and to standardize temporal lobe contouring for patients receiving head and neck radiotherapy for NPC in a tertiary teaching hospital in Singapore.The baseline data were obtained from 10 patients in the diagnostic phase and the effect of interventions were measured in 37 patients who underwent head and neck radiotherapy over a 6-month period.We conducted the project based on the Clinical Practice Improvement Program methodology. The baseline pooled mean percentage variation in temporal lobe contouring was 39.9% (0.8%-60.2%). There was a low level of temporal lobe contouring concordance and this provided the impetus for implementation of strategies to improve the accuracy and reproducibility of temporal lobe contouring. The interventions included supervision and training of radiation therapists and residents in temporal lobe contouring, and standardization of temporal lobe contouring with a protocol and contouring atlas.Thirty-seven patients were treated during the study period from June to November 2014. Following implementation of the first set of interventions, the pooled mean percentage variation in temporal lobe contouring decreased but was not sustained. The implementation of the second set of interventions resulted in a decrease from 39.9% (January to September 2014) to 17.3% (October to November 2014) where P = .004 using t test. Weekly variation was seen throughout the study period but the decrease was sustained after standardizing and providing a contouring atlas for temporal lobe contouring.Temporal lobe contouring can be standardized through effective implementation of a temporal lobe contouring protocol and atlas.

Prevention of deep sternal wound infection in cardiac surgery: a literature review

BACKGROUND

Deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) is a dreaded complication of cardiac surgery with considerable consequences in terms of mortality, morbidity and treatment costs. In addition to standard surgical site infection prevention guidelines, multiple specific measures in the prevention of DSWI have been developed and evaluated in the past decades. This review focuses on these specific measures to prevent DSWI.

METHODS

An extensive literature search was performed to assess interventions in the prevention of DSWI. Articles describing results of a randomized controlled trial were categorized by type of intervention. Results were yielded and, if possible, pooled.

RESULTS

From a total of 743 articles found, 48 randomized controlled trials were selected. Studies were divided into 12 categories, containing pre-, peri- and postoperative preventive measures. Specific measures shown to be effective were: antibiotic prophylaxis with a first-generation cephalosporin for at least 24 h, application of local gentamicin before chest closure, sternal closure with figure-of-eight steel wires, and postoperative chest support using a corset or vest.

CONCLUSION

This study identified several measures that prevent DSWI after cardiac surgery that are not frequently applied in current practice. It is recommended that the guidelines on prevention of surgical site infection in cardiac surgery should be updated.

Perioperative hair removal: A review of best practice and a practice improvement opportunity

The current practice of perioperative hair removal reflects research-driven changes designed to minimize the risk of surgical wound infection. An aspect of the practice which has received less scrutiny is the clean-up of the clipped hair. This process is critical. The loose fibers represent a potential infection risk because of the micro-organisms they can carry, but their clean-up can pose a logistical problem because of the time required to remove them. Research has demonstrated that the most commonly employed means of clean-up, the use of adhesive tape or sticky mitts, can be both ineffective and time-consuming in addition to posing an infection risk from cross-contamination. Recently published research evaluating surgical clippers fitted with a vacuum-assisted hair collection device highlights the potential for significant practice improvement in the perioperative hair removal clean-up process. These improvements include not only further mitigation of potential infection risk but also substantial OR time and cost savings.

Bundles Prevent Surgical Site Infections After Colorectal Surgery: Meta-analysis and Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal surgeries (CRS) have one of the highest rates of surgical site infections (SSIs) with rates 15 to >30%. Prevention "bundles" or sets of evidence-based interventions are structured ways to improve patient outcomes. The aim sof this study is to evaluate CRS SSI prevention bundles, bundle components, and implementation and compliance strategies.

METHODS

A meta-analysis of studies with pre- and post-implementation data was conducted to assess the impact of bundles on SSI rates (superficial, deep, and organ/space). Subgroup analysis of bundle components identified optimal bundle designs.

RESULTS

Thirty-five studies (51,413 patients) were identified and 23 (17,557 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. A SSI risk reduction of 40% (p < 0.001) was noted with 44% for superficial SSI (p < 0.001) and 34% for organ/space (p = 0.048). Bundles with sterile closure trays (58.6 vs 33.1%), MBP with oral antibiotics (55.4 vs 31.8%), and pre-closure glove changes (56.9 vs 28.5%) had significantly greater SSI risk reduction.

CONCLUSION

Bundles can effectively reduce the risk of SSIs after CRS, by fostering a cohesive environment, standardization, and reduction in operative variance. If implemented successfully and complied with, bundles can become vital to improving patients' surgical quality of care.

Adhering to a national surgical care bundle reduces the risk of surgical site infections

Background

In 2008, a bundle of care to prevent Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) was introduced in the Netherlands. The bundle consisted of four elements: antibiotic prophylaxis according to local guidelines, no hair removal, normothermia and ‘hygiene discipline’ in the operating room (i.e. number of door movements). Dutch hospitals were advised to implement the bundle and to measure the outcome. This study’s goal was to assess how effective the bundle was in reducing SSI risk.

Methods

Hospitals assessed whether their staff complied with each of the bundle elements and voluntary reported compliance data to the national SSI surveillance network (PREZIES). From PREZIES data, we selected data from 2009 to 2014 relating to 13 types of surgical procedures. We excluded surgeries with missing (non)compliance data, and calculated for each remaining surgery with reported (non)compliance data the level of compliance with the bundle (that is, being compliant with 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 of the elements). Subsequently, we used this level of compliance to assess the effect of bundle compliance on the SSI risk, using multilevel logistic regression techniques.

Results

217 489 surgeries were included, of which 62 486 surgeries (29%) had complete bundle reporting. Within this group, the SSI risk was significantly lower for surgeries with complete bundle compliance compared to surgeries with lower compliance levels. Odds ratios ranged from 0.63 to 0.86 (risk reduction of 14% to 37%), while a 13% risk reduction was demonstrated for each point increase in compliance-level. Sensitivity analysis indicated that due to analysing reported bundles only, we probably underestimated the total effect of implementing the bundle.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that adhering to a surgical care bundle significantly reduced the risk of SSIs. Reporting of and compliance with the bundle compliance can, however, still be improved. Therefore an even greater effect might be achieved.

Tokyo Guidelines 2013 may be too restrictive and patients with moderate and severe acute cholecystitis can be managed by early cholecystectomy too

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is safe and feasible for patients diagnosed with moderate (grade 2) and severe (grade 3) acute cholecystitis (AC) according to the Tokyo Guidelines 2013 (TG13).

BACKGROUND

Early cholecystectomy is the current accepted standard of care for patients with mild (grade 1) and selected grade 2 AC based on TG13. For selected grade 2 and grade 3 AC, early percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) followed by delayed cholecystectomy is recommended.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with AC over a 14-month period were identified and divided into three grades of AC based upon chart review using the grading and severity indicators according to TG13.

RESULTS

A total of 149 patients underwent emergency LC. Eighty-two (55 %) patients were male. Eighty-four (56.4 %) patients were classified as grade 1 AC, 49 (32.9 %) as grade 2, and 16 (10.7 %) as grade 3. Eighty-three (98.8 %) patients with grade 1 AC underwent emergency LC, and 1 patient (1.2 %) underwent PC followed by emergency LC. The median length of hospital stay for grade 1 AC patients was 2 (1-11) days. There were 2 (2.4 %) readmissions with fever and no additional complications. Among the 65 patients identified with grade 2 or 3 AC, 6 (9.2 %) underwent PC followed by emergency LC. Fifty-nine (90.8 %) patients underwent emergency cholecystectomy: 58 (98.3 %) LC and one (1.7 %) open cholecystectomy. Among the 58 patients with LC, 3 (5.2 %) patients had open conversion and 10 (17.2 %) patients required subtotal cholecystectomy. One patient was converted to open due to bile duct injury and had hepaticojejunostomy repair. Two other patients were converted due to dense adhesions and inability to safely dissect Calot's triangle. The median length of hospital stay was 4 (1-28) days. There was one readmission for ileus.

CONCLUSION

Severity grading of AC is not the sole determinant of early LC. Patient comorbidity also impacts clinical decision. Confirmation in a larger cohort is warranted.

The Use of Gentamicin-Impregnated Collagen Sponge for Reducing Surgical Site Infection after Spine Surgery

Objective

Surgical site infection (SSI) is the one of the most frequent complications in hospitalized patients, and it extends hospital stays and causes extra morbidities. To reduce SSI after spine surgery, we applied the gentamicin-impregnated collagen sponge (Collatamp G) during the operation and analyzed the results retrospectively.

Methods

Between October 2012 and December 2015, we collected data who applied the Collatamp G in spine surgery at a single institution. Demographic data of patients and another possible risk factors of SSI were also included, and we assessed the correlation between the risk factors and the developing of SSI by reviewing electronic medical records retrospectively.

Results

Three percent of all patients (10 of 280) developed the SSI and only 0.8% of patients who applied Collatamp G developed SSI (1 of 119). Otherwise, 5% of patients who did not apply Collatamp G developed SSI (9 of 161) (p=0.034). We also analyzed the correlation between SSI and other potential risk factors but nothings showed statistical correlation with SSI.

Conclusion

In this study, there were statistically significant results that SSI rate was decreased in the group of patients using Collatamp G in spine surgery generally. However, further studies are required to resolve some limitations in the future.

Compliance of Perioperative Antibiotic Dosing and Surgical Site Infection Rate in Office-Based Elective Surgery

BACKGROUND

A best practice goal to reduce surgical site infection includes administration of antibiotics in the ideal preoperative window. This article evaluates an office surgical suite antibiotic administration rate and compares it with the timing of a local hospital treating a similar patient population. The hypothesis was that similar or better compliance and surgical site infection rates can be achieved in the office-based suite.

METHODS

A total of 277 office-based surgeries were analyzed for antibiotic administration time before incision and their corresponding surgical site infection rate.

RESULTS

Our facility administered timely prophylactic antibiotics in 96% of cases with a surgical site infection rate of 0.36%. This rate was significantly lower than a reported rate of 3.7%.

CONCLUSION

Low infection rates with high antibiotic administration rate suggest that compliance with best possible practice protocols is possible in the outpatient setting.

Economic Evaluation of Interventions for Prevention of Hospital Acquired Infections: A Systematic Review

Objective

This systematic review sought to assess the costs and benefits of interventions preventing hospital-acquired infections and to evaluate methodological and reporting quality.

Methods

We systematically searched Medline via PubMed and the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database from 2009 to 2014. We included quasi-experimental and randomized trails published in English or German evaluating the economic impact of interventions preventing the four most frequent hospital-acquired infections (urinary tract infections, surgical wound infections, pneumonia, and primary bloodstream infections). Characteristics and results of the included articles were extracted using a standardized data collection form. Study and reporting quality were evaluated using SIGN and CHEERS checklists. All costs were adjusted to 2013 US$. Savings-to-cost ratios and difference values with interquartile ranges (IQRs) per month were calculated, and the effects of study characteristics on the cost-benefit results were analyzed.

Results

Our search returned 2067 articles, of which 27 met the inclusion criteria. The median savings-to-cost ratio across all studies reporting both costs and savings values was US $7.0 (IQR 4.2–30.9), and the median net global saving was US $13,179 (IQR 5,106–65,850) per month. The studies’ reporting quality was low. Only 14 articles reported more than half of CHEERS items appropriately. Similarly, an assessment of methodological quality found that only four studies (14.8%) were considered high quality.

Conclusions

Prevention programs for hospital acquired infections have very positive cost-benefit ratios. Improved reporting quality in health economics publications is required.

Validação de checklist cirúrgico para prevenção de infecção de sítio cirúrgico

Resumo Objetivo Construir e validar checklist cirúrgico para segurança do paciente e prevenção de infecção de sítio cirúrgico. Métodos Pesquisa quantitativa realizada para validar instrumento criado e utilizado em cirurgia segura. O instrumento foi validado por sete peritos. Para concordância entre os juízes utilizou-se o coeficiente de concordância de Kendall e para verificar se a opinião dos juízes diferiu significativamente, o teste de Cochran. O instrumento é validado se houver concordância entre os juízes e a clareza for significante. Resultados Na primeira avaliação do instrumento, obteve-se Kendall de 0,230 para pertinência e 0,390 para clareza, o que implicou em reformulação do checklist. Após a reformulação, obteve-se concordância absoluta para pertinência e não houve diferença significativa para clareza. Com o instrumento validado, foi criado um sistema informatizado para inserção dos dados coletados. Conclusão O instrumento criado foi validado e pode auxiliar na segurança do paciente e prevenção de infecção de sítio cirúrgico.

The effect of preheated versus room-temperature skin disinfection on bacterial colonization during pacemaker device implantation: a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial

Background

In clinical practice, patients who are awake often comment that cold surgical skin disinfectant is unpleasant. This is not only a problem of patients’ experience; heat loss during the disinfection process is a problem that can result in hypothermia. Evidence for the efficacy of preheated disinfection is scarce.

We tested whether preheated skin disinfectant was non-inferior to room-temperature skin disinfectant on reducing bacterial colonization during pacemaker implantation.

Methods

This randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial included 220 patients allocated to skin disinfection with preheated (36 °C) or room-temperature (20 °C) chlorhexidine solution in 70 % ethanol. Cultures were obtained by swabbing at 4 time-points; 1) before skin disinfection (skin surface), 2) after skin disinfection (skin surface), 3) after the incision (subcutaneously in the wound), and 4) before suturing (subcutaneously in the wound).

Results

The absolute difference in growth between patients treated with preheated versus room-temperature skin disinfectant was zero (90 % CI −0.101 to 0.101; preheated: 30 of 105 [28.6 %] vs. room-temperature: 32 of 112 [28.6 %]). The pre-specified margin for statistical non-inferiority in the protocol was set at 10 % for the preheated disinfectant. There were no significant differences between groups regarding SSIs three month postoperatively, which occurred in 0.9 % (1 of 108) treated with preheated and 1.8 % (2 of 112) treated with room-temperature skin disinfectant.

Conclusion

Preheated skin disinfection is non-inferior to room-temperature disinfection in bacterial reduction. We therefore suggest that preheated skin disinfection become routine in clean surgery.

Trial registration

The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCTO2260479).

Surgical site infection: poor compliance with guidelines and care bundles

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are probably the most preventable of the health care-associated infections. Despite the widespread international introduction of level I evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of SSIs, such as that of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the UK and the surgical care improvement project (SCIP) of the USA, SSI rates have not measurably fallen. The care bundle approach is an accepted method of packaging best, evidence-based measures into routine care for all patients and, common to many guidelines for the prevention of SSI, includes methods for preoperative removal of hair (where appropriate), rational antibiotic prophylaxis, avoidance of perioperative hypothermia, management of perioperative blood glucose and effective skin preparation. Reasons for poor compliance with care bundles are not clear and have not matched the wide uptake and perceived benefit of the WHO 'Safe Surgery Saves Lives' checklist. Recommendations include the need for further research and continuous updating of guidelines; comprehensive surveillance, using validated definitions that facilitate benchmarking of anonymised surgeon-specific SSI rates; assurance that incorporation of checklists and care bundles has taken place; the development of effective communication strategies for all health care providers and those who commission services and comprehensive information for patients.

Risk factors for surgical site infection in a teaching hospital: a prospective study of 1,138 patients

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI) in a teaching hospital.

METHODS

A prospective study was initiated to investigate risk factors for SSI at a university-affiliated tertiary care center from July 2013 to December 2014. The chi-square test for categorical variables was used to determine the significance of association, whereas the multivariate logistic regression model was used to examine independent risk factors for SSI.

RESULTS

A total of 1,138 patients met the inclusion criteria, in whom 36 cases of infection occurred during the hospitalization period and two cases occurred after discharge. Univariate analysis showed that SSI was associated with the type of operation, wound classification, volume of blood loss, blood transfusion, American Society of Anesthesiology score before surgery, risk index, duration of surgery, diabetes, cancer, gastrointestinal catheter, urinary catheter, postoperative drainage, and preprocedural white blood cell count. Multivariate analysis identified six independent parameters correlating with the occurrence of SSI: diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 6.400; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.582-15.866; P=0.000); cancer (OR 2.427; 95% CI 1.028-5.732; P=0.043); preprocedural white blood cell count more than 10×10(9)/L (OR 6.988; CI 3.165-15.425; P=0.000); wound classification (clean contaminated [OR: 7.893; CI: 2.244-27.762; P=0.001]; contaminated [OR: 7.031; CI: 1.652-29.922; P=0.008]; dirty [OR: 48.778; CI: 5.418-439.164; P=0.001]); operative duration more than 120 minutes (OR 4.289; CI 1.773-10.378; P=0.001); and postoperative drainage (OR 3.957; CI 1.422-11.008; P=0.008).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that all these risk factors could be regarded as potential indicators of SSI and that relevant preventive measures should be taken to reduce SSI and improve patient outcomes.

The use of Collatamp G, local gentamicin-collagen sponge, in reducing wound infection

We conducted a retrospective study to examine the role of Collatamp G in reducing postoperative surgical site infection (SSI) in patients with different wound classes. Ninety-two patients (62 men and 30 women; mean age, 58 years; range, 29-88 years) who had undergone surgery between December 2009 and November 2011 in Tan Tock Seng Hospital and who had application of Collatamp G in their wound before closure were included in the study. The primary endpoint was the development of any superficial wound infection within 1 month postoperatively. Of 92 patients studied, 9 (10%) developed a superficial wound infection. Two of 43 patients with clean-contaminated wounds (5%), 2 of 19 with contaminated wounds (11%), and 5 of 30 with dirty-infected wounds (16%) developed infection. Use of the larger size Collatamp G (10 × 10 cm) also appears to have a lower incidence of SSI compared with the smaller Collatamp G (5 × 5 cm); 4% and 12%, respectively. Our data suggest that postoperative SSI was reduced in the group of patients with dirty-infected wound class. SSI appears to be decreased with use of the larger size Collatamp G.

Comparison of control strategies for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

BACKGROUND

Screening patients for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization and contact precautions for colonized patients has been recommended when other control measures have been ineffective.

METHODS

We compared MRSA transmission rates following implementation of a bundle of control measures that included institutional culture change, surveillance for MRSA infection and transmission, and active screening for colonization in 2 similar Veterans Health Administration hospitals. One hospital employed contact precautions as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the other hospital modified contact precautions, requiring only the use of gloves.

RESULTS

During the 4-year study period, there were 1.58 MRSA transmissions per 1,000 patient-days at hospital A and 1.56 MRSA transmissions per 1,000 patient-days at hospital B (P = .98). Both hospitals experienced significant reductions in MRSA health care-associated infections (HAI). There was no difference between hospital A and hospital B in incidence of MRSA HAIs or MRSA surgical site infections. Annual acquisition costs for cover gowns were $183,609 at hospital A and $25,812 at hospital B.

CONCLUSION

Significant reductions in MRSA HAI were associated with implementation of the MRSA control bundle. The bundle that included full contact precautions for colonized patients was no more effective in prevention of MRSA transmissions than a similar bundle that omitted the use of cover gowns.

What is the quality of reporting of studies of interventions to increase compliance with antibiotic prophylaxis?

BACKGROUND

Despite studies reporting successful interventions to increase antibiotic prophylaxis compliance, surgical site infections remain a significant problem. The reasons for this lack of improvement are unknown. This review evaluates the internal and external validity of quality improvement studies of interventions to increase surgical antibiotic prophylaxis compliance.

STUDY DESIGN

Three investigators independently performed systematic literature searches and selected eligible studies that evaluated interventions to improve perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis timing, type, and/or discontinuation. Studies published before the Surgical Infection Prevention project inception in 2002 were excluded. Each study was assessed based on modified criteria for evaluating quality improvement studies (Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence) and for facilitating implementation of evidence into practice (Reach-Efficacy-Adoption-Implementation-Maintenance).

RESULTS

Forty-six articles met inclusion criteria; 93% reported improvement in antibiotic prophylaxis compliance. Surgical site infections were evaluated in 50% of studies and 65% reported an improvement. Less than 5% of studies used randomization, allocation concealment, or blinding. Nine percent of studies described efforts to minimize bias in the design results and analysis and 13% described a sample size calculation. Approximately one-third of studies described participant adoption of the intervention (26%), factors affecting generalizability (33%), or implementation barriers (37%). Most studies (80%) used multiple interventions; no single intervention was associated with change in compliance. Studies with the lowest baseline compliance showed the greatest improvement, regardless of the intervention(s).

CONCLUSIONS

The methodology and reporting of quality improvement studies on perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis is suboptimal, and factors that would improve generalizability of successful intervention implementation are infrequently reported. Clinicians should use caution in applying the results of these studies to their general practice.

Incidence of knee sepsis after ACL reconstruction at one institution: the impact of a clinical pathway

BACKGROUND

After experiencing an unusually high incidence of knee sepsis after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, we sought to (1) describe how we resolved this problem through temporary discontinuation of the procedure, formation of a multidisciplinary ACL Task Force, systematic investigation of clinical data and institutional care practices, and development and implementation of an evidence-based ACL Clinical Pathway (the Pathway); and (2) report our findings and results.

METHODS

From 1999 through 2008, thirty-seven cases of knee sepsis after ACL reconstruction were recorded at our institution. In 2008 (yearly incidence, 4.4%), ACL reconstructions were temporarily suspended and a Task Force was assembled to (1) identify infection risk factors or epidemiological links among cases, (2) inspect environment and processes for possible infection sources, and (3) update existing perioperative practices according to current evidence-based guidelines to reduce surgical site infection risk. These actions led to the development of the Pathway for patients and providers. The rates of knee sepsis before and after the Pathway was implemented were compared.

RESULTS

There was no consistent risk factor or epidemiologic link among the cases of knee sepsis other than the time and place of the ACL reconstruction. Process review identified shortfalls in decontamination and sterilization of some surgical equipment. Perioperative care practices review revealed wide interprovider variation. Pathway implementation reduced the rate of knee sepsis after ACL reconstruction from 1.96% (twenty-four cases after 1226 ACL reconstructions performed from 2002 to 2008) to 0% (zero cases after 500 ACL reconstructions performed from 2008 to 2011); the difference was significant (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

When a Task Force investigation suggested that knee sepsis after ACL reconstruction was a multifactorial problem, we implemented and standardized evidence-based perioperative care practices via the institution-wide Pathway, which significantly improved the quality and consistency of care for patients undergoing ACL reconstruction, as well evidenced by the elimination of knee sepsis.

Bacterial recolonization of the skin and wound contamination during cardiac surgery: a randomized controlled trial of the use of plastic adhesive drape compared with bare skin

BACKGROUND

Sternal wound infection after cardiac surgery is a serious complication. Various perioperative strategies, including plastic adhesive drapes, are used to reduce bacterial contamination of surgical wounds.

AIM

To compare plastic adhesive drape to bare skin regarding bacterial growth in wound and time to recolonization of the adjacent skin intraoperatively, in cardiac surgery patients.

METHODS

This single-blinded randomized controlled trial (May 2010 to May 2011) included 140 patients scheduled for cardiac surgery via median sternotomy. The patients were randomly allocated to the adhesive drape (chest covered with plastic adhesive drape) or bare skin group. Bacterial samples were taken preoperatively and intraoperatively every hour during surgery until skin closure.

RESULTS

Disinfection with 0.5% chlorhexidine solution in 70% alcohol decreased coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), while the proportion colonized with Propionibacterium acnes was not significantly reduced and was still present in more than 50% of skin samples. P. acnes was significantly more common in men than in women. Progressive bacterial recolonization of the skin occurred within 2-3 h. At 120 min there were significantly more positive cultures in the adhesive drape group versus bare skin group for P. acnes (63% vs 44%; P = 0.034) and for CoNS (45% vs 24%; P = 0.013). The only statistically significant difference in bacterial growth in the surgical wound was higher proportion of CoNS at the end of surgery in the adhesive drape group (14.7% vs 4.4%; P = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Plastic adhesive drape does not reduce bacterial recolonization. P. acnes colonized men more frequently, and was not decreased by disinfection with chlorhexidine solution in alcohol.

Hygienemanagement im OP und in der Endoskopie

<b><i>Hintergrund: </i></b>Postoperative Wundinfektionen gehören zu den häufigsten nosokomialen Infektionen. Die Zunahme von mehrfachresistenten gramnegativen Erregern bereitet gerade in der Viszeralmedizin besondere Sorge. <b><i>Methode und Ergebnisse: </i></b>Da nicht alle Risiken für nosokomiale Infektionen beherrschbar sind, können diese Infektionen niemals vollständig vermieden werden. Umso wichtiger ist es, die vorhandenen Maßnahmen konsequent anzuwenden, um den medizinischen Fortschritt, der in der Viszeralmedizin gerade auch durch neue endoskopische und operative Verfahren in den letzten Jahren erkennbar ist, nutzen zu können. Das Verständnis der Erreger und der Infektionsbiologie ist dabei genauso wichtig wie die Kenntnis der nötigen Präventionsmaßnahmen und ihre Einbindung in klinische Prozesse. Bei invasiven Maßnahmen greifen dabei mit dem Patientenweg, dem Weg der Instrumente, der sonstigen OP/Endoskopie-Materialien und Medikamente, der OP-Einrichtung und dem Team mehrere Prozesse ineinander. <b><i>Schlussfolgerung: </i></b>Eine optimale Infektionsprävention ist nur bei einer Optimierung aller Prozesse sowie ihrer Interaktion zu erreichen. Anhand einer Übersicht zu Epidemiologie, Risikofaktoren und Möglichkeiten zur Vermeidung von Infektionen in der Viszeralmedizin soll ein Beitrag geleistet werden, um Viszeralmediziner für das Thema Infektionsprävention und Hygiene zu sensibilisieren und die Patientensicherheit zu erhöhen.

Nonconcordance with surgical site infection prevention guidelines and rates of surgical site infections for general surgical, neurological, and orthopedic procedures

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common and preventable complication of surgery, but the relative importance of individual measures recommended by guidelines has not been determined. Elective general surgical, neurological, and orthopedic procedures requiring antibiotic prophylaxis from a 3-month period were retrospectively studied to determine concordance with SSI prevention guidelines and to identify factors which predicted the development of SSIs. A total of 216 surgeries were reviewed, with 18 SSIs (8.3%). A mean of 1.4 antibiotic prophylaxis errors per surgery were identified, with correct antibiotic type identified for 64%, antibiotic timing for 83%, supplemental antibiotic dosing for 34%, and antibiotic duration of less than 24 h for 44%. Normothermia was present in 79% of surgeries, and normoglycemia was present in 17%. Univariate analysis of the SSI rate identified four significant factors. Antibiotic prophylaxis for less than 24 h postoperatively (odds ratio [OR], 0.213; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]0.060 to 0.757) and neurosurgery (OR, 0.118; 95% CI, 0.15 to 0.903) correlated with a reduced risk of SSI. The mean number of prophylaxis errors (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.4) and a duration of surgical drainage for more than 3 days (OR, 2.679; 95% CI, 1.009 to 7.113) predicted SSI. By multivariate analysis, errors in individual antibiotic prophylaxis measures were not significantly associated with SSI; however, the presence of more than two errors was significant (OR, 4.030; 95% CI, 1.018 to 15.96). A strong correlation was identified between the degree of concordance to SSI prevention guidelines and the SSI rate (P = 0.001, Mantel-Haenszel linear-by-linear association chi-square test).

Differing risk factors for incisional and organ/space surgical site infections following abdominal colorectal surgery

OBJECTIVE

Surgical site infections are a major source of morbidity after colorectal surgery. The aim of this study was to explore differences between incisional and organ/space surgical site infection types by evaluating risk factors, National Nosocomial Risk Index Scores, and clinical outcomes.

DESIGN

A random sample of adults undergoing abdominal colorectal surgery between June 2001 and July 2008 was extracted from a colorectal surgery practice database. Patient factors, comorbidities, intraoperative factors, postoperative factors, and infection were collected; risk score (from -1 to 3 points) was calculated. Variables associated with surgical site infection by univariate analysis were incorporated in a multivariable model to identify risk factors by infection type. Infection risk by risk score was evaluated by logistic regression. Length of stay, readmission, and mortality were examined by infection type.

RESULTS

Six hundred fifty subjects were identified: 312 were male, age was 59.8 (SD 17.8) years. Common preoperative diagnoses included colorectal cancer (36.9%) and inflammatory bowel disease (21.7%). Forty-five cases were emergencies, and 171 included rectal resections. Eighty-two patients developed incisional and 64 developed organ/space surgical site infections. Body mass index was associated with incisional infection (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.00-1.09), whereas previous radiation (OR 4.49, 95% CI 1.53-13.18), postoperative hyperglycemia (OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.41-6.34), preoperative [albumin] (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.36-0.76), and case length (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.08-1.47) were associated with organ/space infection. A risk score of 2 and above, compared with a score of <2, predicted organ/space (OR 5.92, 95% CI 3.16-11.09) but not incisional infection (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.41-2.16). Organ/space infections were associated with longer length of stay (P = .006) and higher readmission rates (P < .001) than incisional infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk factors for surgical site infections differ by type of infection. Clinical outcomes and value of the risk index score are different by infection type. It may be prudent to consider incisional and organ/space surgical site infections as different entities for patients undergoing colorectal surgery.