Update on surgical site infections

Abstract

Surgical site infections (SSIs) occur near or at the incision site and/or deeper underlying tissue spaces and organs within 30 days of a surgical procedure (or up to 90 days for implanted prosthetics). SSIs are the most common healthcare-associated infections experienced by patients who undergo surgery, increase overall cost and length of hospital stay, and are largely preventable. This article reviews the recently updated CDC guidelines for preventing SSIs.