SCOPE OF SURGICAL SITE INFECTION (SSI) IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY

Abstract

Objective:

1. To find out the true surgical site (SSI) infection rate in obstetric and gynaecological set up.

2. To possibly identify the most likely organism prevalent in our infected wounds.

3. To find common susceptibility of organisms to the most common antibiotics.

4. To establish a relationship between the parity, hospital stay, blood loss and transfusion, and the

infection of surgical wound.

Material and Methods: This was a descriptive study with convenience sampling technique. During a

period of one year, 1290 patients underwent surgical procedures. Cases with surgical site infection were

noted using an operational definition. The organisms isolated and their sensitivity was also recorded.

Results: Out of 1290 patients, 84 patients (6.5%) contracted wound infection, the commonest organism

being Staphylococcus aureus and was most susceptible to Co-Amoxiclave. The hospital stay, blood lost

peri-operatively and transfusion required increased significantly with infective episode.

Conclusion: The surgical site infection is a common problem in our set up. This can significantly

increase morbidity, including hospital stay, thus making patients further susceptible to infection with form

the hospital.