Author(s): Mark Augustine S. Onglao, MD; Marc Paul J. Lopez, MD, FPCS; Hermogenes J. Monroy III, MD , FPCS and Sofia Isabel T.D

Abstract:
Objective: Surgical site infection (SSI) is one of the most common healthcare-associated infections. This study aimed to determine SSI rate and the associated factors among colorectal surgery patients.

Methods: This included adult patients who underwent surgery under the Division of Colorectal Surgery from January to May 2018. Clinico-demographic, operative, and SSI outcome data were reviewed. Occurrence of SSI during admission until discharge, and up to 30 days after the surgery was analyzed.

Results: A total of 172 surgeries were performed. Majority were elective procedures (68.0%) and performed via open approach (67.4%). Most were malignant cases (62.6%). Sixty-three colorectal resections were done (41 colon and 22 rectal). SSI rate prior to discharge was 6.4%, and15.7% at 30 days. Among colorectal resections, 18 (28.6%) patients had SSI at 30 days. SSI rates were significantly higher among patients who were ASA 2 or 3; received chemotherapy 12 weeks prior to surgery; had malignant pathology; underwent emergency surgery; received perioperative transfusion; had stapled skin closure; had low anterior resection for rectal cancer; and had multivisceral resection.

Conclusion: The Division of Colorectal Surgery at the Philippine General Hospital had a higher SSI rate as compared to literature. Although this could be partly explained by the differences in patient and surgeon population, improving on SSI rates will be the unit’s goal. Continued SSI surveillance with more patient accrual may provide better insight to the associated risk factors.

Key words: Surgical site infection, colorectal surgery, risk factors

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