A survey of surgical site infection prevention practice in UK vascular surgery

• DOI: 10.54522/jvsgbi.2022.030
• Publication Date: 2022-06-29T15:40:20Z
• Authors: R Lathan; M Yiasemidou; J Long; A Mohamed; L Hitchman; B Ravindhran; M Sidapra; CE Smith; IC Chetter
• Keywords: Vascular surgery; Nice; Chlorhexidine gluconate; Excellence

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality within vascular surgery. Despite the publication of several guidelines, there is lack consensus regarding most effective perioperative practice to minimise incidence SSI. This study aimed assess current SSI prevention among UK surgeons. Methods: An online survey developed using National Institute for Health Care Excellence (NICE), Centers Disease Control Prevention (CDC) World Organisation (WHO) guidelines was piloted in tertiary centre before being distributed by email members Vascular Society Great Britain Ireland. The contained 15 question domains across preoperative, postoperative phases establish practice. open 1 month with reminder emails at 2 3 weeks. Results: A total 109 respondents from 47 hospitals completed survey, 90 which were consultants (82.6%). median reported rate 7.5% (IQR 5–10%). Lower limb arterial major amputations highlighted as highest risk procedures Empirical criteria are used 67.2% diagnose SSI, over half (52.2%) surgeons this alone. Most use alcoholic chlorhexidine gluconate (69.6%) skin preparation basic wound dressings (67.6%). Around (52.5%) that they would negative pressure therapy closed wounds. Formal surveillance not undertaken 73.7% respondents. Conclusions: There little agreement best prevent Unsurprisingly then, clinical follows suit continues show measures used. also appears be disparity registry level, perception literature data rates. Well-designed high-quality trials needed provide evidence-based recommendations field.