Postoperative Wound Infection

Postoperative wound infection is an infection that occurs after surgery. It can be caused by bacteria entering the wound during or after surgery. Symptoms of a postoperative wound infection can include redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, fever, and pain. Treatment typically includes antibiotics and/or surgical procedures.

Infections can be avoided by taking preventive measures before, during, and after surgery. This can involve appropriate antibiotic selection, proper gowning and glove use, appropriate wound care, and thorough hand hygiene.

Causes of Postoperative Wound Infection

Postoperative wound infections are caused by bacteria entering the surgical wound. These bacteria can enter through preoperative skin contamination, direct contact with the infected area during surgery, and/or postoperative contamination.

Preoperative skin contamination – Bacteria can enter the wound through the patient's skin before surgery. This is more likely to occur in patients with a compromised immune system or in those with a history of poor wound care.
Direct contact with the infected area – Bacteria can be introduced during surgery when the surgeon or nurse's hands come into contact with the infected area.
Postoperative contamination – Bacteria can enter the wound after surgery through improper wound care or the use of improper dressings.

Symptoms of Postoperative Wound Infection

The most common symptoms of a postoperative wound infection include redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, fever, and pain at the surgical site.

Redness and warmth – The redness and warmth of a wound may indicate an infection.
Swelling – Swelling may occur around the surgical incision and should be monitored.
Drainage – The drainage from the wound may be cloudy or tinged with blood and/or pus.
Fever – Fever may occur as the body's immune system works to fight off the infection.
Pain – Pain at the surgical site may also indicate an infection.

Treatment of Postoperative Wound Infection

Treatment for a postoperative wound infection may include antibiotics, surgical procedures, or a combination of the two. If the infection is severe, or if it is not responding to antibiotic treatment, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.

Antibiotics – Antibiotics may be prescribed to fight the infection. Antibiotics should be taken for the full prescribed course of treatment.
Surgical procedures – In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue or to repair the damaged tissue. Surgery may be needed to reduce the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body.

Prevention of Postoperative Wound Infection

The best way to prevent postoperative wound infections is by taking preventive measures before, during, and after surgery. This can include:

Using appropriate antibiotics – Different types of antibiotics may be necessary for different types of surgery.
Proper gowning and glove use – All healthcare personnel should use appropriate gowns and gloves to prevent the spread of infection.
Appropriate wound care – Proper cleaning and dressing of the wound is essential for preventing infection.
Thorough hand hygiene – Good hand hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infection.