Prevent Surgical Site Infections: Tips from Intercoastal General Surgery

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a potential complication after any surgery, but the good news is you can take steps to reduce the risk. A "surgical site" is the area where surgery was performed. The cut made in the skin during surgery is called an "incision" or "surgical wound." Bacteria or other germs entering the body through the incision can lead to a SSI. Certain operations, particularly those involving bowel or colon have an inherent higher rate of infections.  They can delay recovery and, in rare cases, lead to serious health problems. However, both healthcare providers and patients can work together to prevent infections. In this post, we’ll cover some important steps to protect yourself before and after surgery.

Where Surgical Site Infections Can Occur

1. Skin: These are mostly superficial and can often be treated with oral antibiotics

2. Tissue: Includes skin and deeper tissue. Treatment often requires antibiotics and may also include surgical drainage

3. Organ: Surgery may be the most efficient strategy depending on the organ involved. Other may improve with just antibiotics. 

4. Prosthetic: Knee/ Hip or other implanted device can also become infected. Treatment may involve salvage therapy with antibiotics, implanted antibiotics and removal.

   
   

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Making sure your body is in the best possible condition before your surgery can help reduce the risk of infection.

• Stop Smoking: If you smoke, try to quit before your surgery. Smoking reduces blood flow to the tissues and can slow down healing, increasing the risk of infection. Smoking cessation is best if done 6-8 weeks prior to surgery. Nicotine products also affect healing effectiveness

• Control Blood Sugar: If you have diabetes, controlling your blood sugar levels before and after surgery is crucial. High blood sugar weakens your immune system and can make infections more likely.

• Shower with Antibacterial Soap: Your doctor may recommend that you shower with a special antibacterial soap the night before or the morning of your surgery. This helps reduce the number of bacteria on your skin.

• Remove Hair Safely: Avoid shaving the area where you’ll have surgery, as minor cuts can allow bacteria to enter. If necessary, your healthcare team will safely remove hair before the procedure.

• Reduce stress: Stress can affect your immune system and, therefore increase your risk of infection

• Stop medications: Certain medications may decrease your body’s immunity (Steroids, immunomodulators, chemotherapy, etc)

During the Surgery

Your surgical team takes several steps to prevent infection during the procedure:

• Sterile Environment: The surgical team uses sterile gloves, gowns, and instruments to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria to your body.

• Antibiotics: You’ll receive antibiotics before the surgery to reduce the chance of infection, especially if you have a procedure with a higher risk of infection, such as bowel/colon surgery or hernia surgery.

• Keeping the Body Warm: Maintaining your body temperature during surgery can help reduce infection risk. If you're too cold, healing can be slower, which increases infection risk.

Post-Surgery Care:

Proper wound care after surgery is essential for preventing SSIs.

• Keep Your Wound Clean and Dry: Follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care, which may include cleaning the area with a specific solution and keeping it dry. Avoid touching the wound with dirty hands.

• Change Dressings as Directed: Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on changing your dressings. Be sure to follow these guidelines carefully to prevent contamination.

• Look for Signs of Infection: Watch for redness, swelling, increased pain, warmth around the incision, or drainage from the wound. These could be signs of infection; if you notice them, contact your doctor immediately.

• Make sure you understand how to contact your health care provider in case of emergencies

Healthy Habits During Recovery

Beyond direct wound care, your overall health significantly affects how quickly you heal and whether you get an infection.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet: Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables can support your immune system and promote healing.

• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol use can slow healing and increase your risk of infection. Try to avoid these while you recover.

• Get Moving (When Approved): Light movement, like walking, can improve circulation and help prevent infections. Be sure to ask your doctor when it’s safe to start moving around after surgery.

Final Thoughts

While surgical site infections can be a concern, following the advice of your healthcare team and taking steps to care for yourself before and after surgery can significantly reduce your risk. If you have questions about your wound or are concerned about infection, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Hernandez and the Intercoastal Surgery Team. Quick action can help prevent complications and get you back on track for a smooth recovery.