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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2019; 32(03): 157-165
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1677002
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Surgical Site Infection: The Clinical and Economic Impact

Megan C. Turner
1   Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
,
John Migaly
2   Division of Advanced GI and Oncologic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
02 April 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Surgical site infection (SSI) following colorectal surgery is associated with worse postoperative outcomes, longer length of stay, and higher rates of readmission. SSI rates have been established as a surrogate metric for the overall quality of surgical care and are intricately tied to financial incentives and the public reputation of an institution. While risk factors and prevention mechanisms for SSI are well established, the rates of SSI remain high. This article discusses the clinical and economic impact of SSI and strategies for mitigating the risk of SSI through bundled prevention practices.

Keywords

surgical site infection - economic impact of SSI - surgical site infection prevention bundles - cost - complications
 

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