Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) are among the most common healthcare-associated infections worldwide and represent a major cause of postoperative morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, increased healthcare costs, and mortality. Despite advancements in surgical techniques and infection prevention strategies, SSIs continue to pose significant challenges to healthcare systems.

Objective

This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with surgical site infections and evaluate preventive measures that reduce SSI incidence and improve surgical outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter observational study was conducted involving 4,500 patients who underwent various surgical procedures between 2018 and 2024. Patient demographics, comorbidities, surgical characteristics, perioperative factors, infection rates, and outcomes were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of SSI.

Results

The overall SSI rate was 8.6%. Major risk factors included diabetes mellitus (OR=3.4), obesity (OR=2.9), prolonged surgery duration (OR=2.8), contaminated wounds (OR=3.7), smoking (OR=2.4), and delayed antibiotic prophylaxis (OR=2.2). Implementation of evidence-based prevention bundles reduced SSI incidence by 38%.

Conclusion

Surgical site infections are influenced by multiple patient-related and procedure-related factors. Comprehensive infection prevention strategies, including appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis, glycemic control, surgical asepsis, and postoperative wound management, significantly reduce SSI occurrence and improve patient outcomes.