RISK FACTORS FOR POSTOPERATIVE INFECTIONS IN SPINAL FUSION SURGERIES

Main Article Content

Dr Gavireddy Naga Srinivasa Rao

Keywords

Spinal fusion, surgical site infection, risk factors, obesity, diabetes mellitus, operative time

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical site infections (SSIs) following spinal fusion surgeries remain a significant challenge in orthopedic practice. This study aimed to identify and evaluate risk factors associated with postoperative infections in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgeries at a tertiary care hospital.


 


Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted over 6 months, including 400 patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and surgical details were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for SSI.


 


Results: The overall SSI rate was 6.0% (24/400), with 4.0% superficial and 2.0% deep infections. Obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m²; adjusted OR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.18-4.93), diabetes mellitus (adjusted OR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.03-4.41), ASA class ≥ III (adjusted OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.09-4.76), operative time > 4 hours (adjusted OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.24-5.29), and estimated blood loss > 500 mL (adjusted OR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.01-4.17) were identified as independent risk factors for SSI.


 


Conclusion: This study highlights the multifactorial nature of SSI risk in spinal fusion surgery and identifies several key patient-related and surgical factors associated with increased infection rates. Preoperative optimization of modifiable risk factors, improved surgical efficiency, and targeted prevention strategies for high-risk patients may help reduce SSI rates in spinal fusion procedures.

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