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Objective: We evaluated longitudinal rates, risk factors, and costs of superficial and deep incisional surgical-site infection (SSI) 6 months after primary total knee arthroplasty (pTKA) and revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA)., Methods: Patients were identified from January 1, 2016 through March 31, 2018, in the IBM MarketScan administrative claims databases. Kaplan-Meier survival curves evaluated time to SSI over 6 months. Cox proportional hazard models evaluated SSI risk factors. Generalized linear models estimated SSI costs up to 12 months., Results: Of the 26,097 pTKA patients analyzed (mean age, 61.6 years; SD, 9.2; 61.4% female; 60.4% commercial insurance), 0.65% (95% CI, 0.56%-0.75%) presented with a deep incisional SSI and 0.82% (95% CI, 0.71%-0.93%) with a superficial incisional SSI. Also, 3,663 patients who had rTKA (mean age, 60.9 years; SD, 10.1; 60.6% female; 53.0% commercial insurance), 10.44% (95% CI, 9.36%-11.51%) presented with a deep incisional SSI and 2.60% (95% CI, 2.07%-3.13%) presented with a superficial incisional SSI. Infections were associated with male sex and multiple patient comorbidities including chronic pulmonary disease, pulmonary circulatory disorders, fluid and electrolyte disorders, malnutrition, drug abuse, and depression. Adjusted average all-cause incremental commercial cost ranged from $14,298 to $29,176 and from $41,381 to 59,491 for superficial and deep incisional SSI, respectively., Conclusions: SSI occurred most frequently following rTKA and among patients with pulmonary comorbidities and depression. The incremental costs associated with SSI following TKA were substantial.

Background: Longitudinal rates, risk factors, and costs of superficial and deep incisional surgical site infection (SSI) were evaluated six months after primary total hip arthroplasty (pTHA) and revision total hip replacement (rTHA). Patients and Methods: Patients who had pTHA or rTHA between January 1, 2016 and March 31, 2018 were identified using the IBM ® MarketScan ® administrative claims databases. Kaplan-Meier survival curves evaluated time to SSI over six months. Cox proportional hazard models evaluated SSI risk factors. Generalized linear models estimated SSI costs up to 12 months. Results: The total cohort included 17,514 pTHA patients (mean [standard deviation] age 59.6 [10.1] years, 50.2% female; 66.4% commercial insurance), and 2,954 rTHA patients (61.2 [12.0] years, 52.0% female; 48.6% commercial insurance). Deep and superficial post-operative SSI at six months affected 0.30% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22%-0.39%) and 0.67% (95% CI, 0.55%-0.79% of patients in the pTHA, and 8.9% (95%CI: 7.8%-10.0%) and 4.8% (95% CI, 4.0%-5.6%) of patients in the rTHA cohorts. Hazards for SSI were related to patient comorbidities that included diabetes mellitus, obesity, renal failure, pulmonary or circulatory disorders, and depression. The adjusted average all-cause incremental commercial costs associated with post-operative infection ranged from $21,434 to $42,879 for superficial incisional SSI and $53,884 to $76,472 for deep incisional SSI, over a 12-month post-operative assessment period. Conclusions: The SSI rate after revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) was nearly 9% compared with 1.0% after pTHA. The risk of infection was influenced by several comorbid risk factors. The incremental cost associated with SSIs was substantial.

Background: Spinal fusion surgery (SFS) is one of the most common operations in the United States, >450,000 SFSs are performed annually, incurring annual costs >$10 billion., Objectives: We used a nationwide longitudinal database to accurately assess incidence and payments associated with management of postoperative infection following SFS., Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational cohort analysis of 210,019 patients undergoing SFS from 2014 to 2018 using IBM MarketScan commercial and Medicaid-Medicare databases. We assessed rates of superficial/deep incisional SSIs, from 3 to 180 days after surgery using Cox proportional hazard regression models. To evaluate adjusted payments for patients with/without SSIs, adjusted for inflation to 2019 Consumer Price Index, we used generalized linear regression models with log-link and γ distribution., Results: Overall, 6.6% of patients experienced an SSI, 1.7% superficial SSIs and 4.9% deep-incisional SSIs, with a median of 44 days to presentation for superficial SSIs and 28 days for deep-incisional SSIs. Selective risk factors included surgical approach, admission type, payer, and higher comorbidity score. Postoperative incremental commercial payments for patients with superficial SSI were $20,800 at 6 months, $26,937 at 12 months, and $32,821 at 24 months; incremental payments for patients with deep-incisional SSI were $59,766 at 6 months, $74,875 at 12 months, and $93,741 at 24 months. Corresponding incremental Medicare payments for patients with superficial incisional at 6, 12, 24-months were $11,044, $17,967, and $24,096; while payments for patients with deep-infection were: $48,662, $53,757, and $73,803 at 6, 12, 24-months., Conclusions: We identified a 4.9% rate of deep infection following SFS, with substantial payer burden. The findings suggest that the implementation of robust evidence-based surgical-care bundles to mitigate postoperative SFS infection is warranted.

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) present a substantial burden to patients and healthcare systems. This study aimed to elucidate the prevalence of SSIs in German hospitals and to quantify their clinical and economic burden based on German hospital reimbursement data (G-DRG)., Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study used a 2010-2016 G-DRG dataset to determine the prevalence of SSIs in hospital, using ICD-10-GM codes, after surgical procedures. The captured economic and clinical outcomes were used to quantify and compare resource use, reimbursement and clinical parameters for patients who had or did not have an SSI., Findings: Of the 4,830,083 patients from 79 hospitals, 221,113 were eligible. The overall SSI prevalence for the study period was 4.9%. After propensity-score matching, procedure type, immunosuppression and BMI ≥30 were found to significantly affect the risk of SSI (p<0.001). Mortality and length of stay (LOS) were significantly higher in patients who had an SSI (mortality: 9.3% compared with 4.5% [p<0.001]; LOS (median [interquartile range, IQR]): 28 [27] days compared with 12 [8] days [p<0.001]). Case costs were significantly higher for the SSI group (median [IQR]) €19,008 [25,162] compared with € 9,040 [7,376] [p<0.001]). A median underfunding of SSI was identified at €1,534 per patient., Interpretation: The dataset offers robust information about the "real-world" clinical and economic burden of SSI in hospitals in Germany. The significantly increased mortality of patients with SSI, and their underfunding, calls for a maximization of efforts to prevent SSI through the use of evidence-based SSI-reduction care bundles., Competing Interests: CE is a member of JnJ advisory boards. He received in the past three years honoraria for lecturing from Menarini, MSD and Pfizer. CM, KM and KMP are employees of Johnson & Johnson Medical GmbH MW is CEO and shareholder and WH employee of inspiring-health, which received funds from Johnson & Johnson Medical GmbH. The funding corporations did not affect the study design, analysis and manuscript writing; they were based only on authors decisions. DJL is a member of JnJ advisory panels and teaching groups., (Copyright: © 2022 Eckmann et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Background: The number of primary/revision total joint replacements (TJR) are expected to increase substantially with an aging population and increasing prevalence of comorbid conditions. The 30-day re-admission rate, in all orthopedic specialties, is 5.4% (range, 4.8%-6.0%). A recent publication has documented that the surgical site infection (SSI) infection rate associated with revision total knee (rTKR, 15.6%) and revision total hip (rTHR, 8.6%) arthroplasties are four to seven times the rate of the primary procedures (2.1%-2.2%). These orthopedic infections prolong hospital stays, double re-admissions, and increase healthcare costs by a factor of 300%. Methods: A search of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library publications, which reported the infection risk after TKR and THR, was undertaken (January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2021). The search also included documentation of evidence-based practices that lead to improved post-operative outcomes. Results: The evidence-based approach to reducing the risk of SSI was grouped into pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative periods. Surgical care bundles have existed within other surgical disciplines for more than 20 years, although their use is relatively new in peri-operative orthopedic surgical care. Pre-admission chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) showers/cleansing, staphylococcal decolonization, maintenance of normothermia, wound irrigation, antimicrobial suture wound closure, and post-operative wound care has been shown to improve clinical outcome in randomized controlled studies and meta-analyses. Conclusions: Evidence-based infection prevention care bundles have improved clinical outcomes in all surgical disciplines. The significant post-operative morbidity, mortality, and healthcare cost, associated with SSIs after TJR can be reduced by introduction of evidence-based pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative interventions.

Background: Surgical site infection posthysterectomy has significant impact on patient morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. This study evaluates incidence, risk factors, and total payer costs of surgical site infection after hysterectomy in commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid populations using a nationwide claims database., Methods: IBM MarketScan databases identified women having hysterectomy between 2014 and 2018. Deep-incisional/organ space (DI/OS) and superficial infections were identified over 6 months postoperatively with risk factors and direct infection-associated payments by insurance type over a 24-month postoperative period., Results: Analysis identified 141,869 women; 7.8% Medicaid, 5.8% Medicare, and 3.9% commercially insured women developed deep-incisional/organ space surgical site infection, whereas 3.9% Medicaid, 3.2% Medicare, and 2.1% commercially insured women developed superficial infection within 6 months of index procedure. Deep-incisional/organ space risk factors were open approach (hazard ratio, 1.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.5-1.8) and payer type (Medicaid versus commercial [hazard ratio, 1.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-1.5]); superficial risk factors were payer type (Medicaid versus commercial [hazard ratio, 1.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-1.6]) and solid tumor without metastasis (hazard ratio, 1.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-1.6). Highest payments occurred with Medicare ($44,436, 95% confidence interval: $33,967-$56,422) followed by commercial ($27,140, 95% confidence interval: $25,990-$28,317) and Medicaid patients ($17,265, 95% confidence interval: $15,247-$19,426) for deep-incisional/organ space infection at 24-month posthysterectomy., Conclusions: Real-world cost of managing superficial, deep-incisional/organ space infection after hysterectomy was significantly higher than previously reported. Surgical approach, payer type, and comorbid risk factors contributed to increased risk of infection and economic burden. Medicaid patients experienced the highest risk of infection, followed by Medicare patients. The study suggests adoption of a robust evidence-based surgical care bundle to mitigate risk of surgical site infection and economic burden is warranted., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Previous studies have focused on the development and evaluation of care bundles to reduce the risk of surgical site infection (SSI) throughout the perioperative period. A focused examination of the technical/surgical aspects of SSI reduction during CRS has not been conducted. This study aimed to develop an expert consensus on intraoperative technical/surgical aspects of SSI prevention by the surgical team during colorectal surgery (CRS)., Study Design: In a modified Delphi process, a panel of 15 colorectal surgeons developed a consensus on intraoperative technical/surgical aspects of SSI prevention undertaken by surgical personnel during CRS using information from a targeted literature review and expert opinion. Consensus was developed with up to three rounds per topic, with a prespecified threshold of ≥70% agreement., Results: In 3 Delphi rounds, the 15 panelists achieved consensus on 16 evidence-based statements. The consensus panel supported the use of wound protectors/retractors, sterile incision closure tray, preclosure glove change, and antimicrobial sutures in reducing SSI along with wound irrigation with aqueous iodine and closed-incision negative pressure wound therapy in high-risk, contaminated wounds., Conclusions: Using a modified Delphi method, consensus has been achieved on a tailored set of recommendations on technical/surgical aspects that should be considered by surgical personnel during CRS to reduce the risk of SSI, particularly in areas where the evidence base is controversial or lacking. This document forms the basis for ongoing evidence for the topics discussed in this article or new topics based on newly emerging technologies in CRS., (Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Surgeons.)

Background: Colorectal surgical procedures place substantial burden on health care systems because of the high complication risk, of surgical site infections in particular. The risk of surgical site infection after colorectal surgery is one of the highest of any surgical specialty., Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence, cost of infections after colorectal surgery, and potential economic benefit of using antimicrobial wound closure to improve patient outcomes., Design: Retrospective observational cohort analysis and probabilistic cost analysis were performed., Settings: The analysis utilized a database for colorectal patients in the United States between 2014 and 2018., Patients: A total of 107,665 patients who underwent colorectal surgery were included in the analysis., Main Outcome Measures: Rate of infection was together with identified between 3 and 180 days postoperatively, infection risk factors, infection costs over 24 months postoperatively by payer type (commercial payers and Medicare), and potential costs avoided per patient by using an evidence-based innovative wound closure technology., Results: Surgical site infections were diagnosed postoperatively in 23.9% of patients (4.0% superficial incisional and 19.9% deep incisional/organ space). Risk factors significantly increased risk of deep incisional/organ-space infection and included several patient comorbidities, age, payer type, and admission type. After 12 months, adjusted increased costs associated with infections ranged from $36,429 to $144,809 for commercial payers and $17,551 to $102,280 for Medicare, depending on surgical site infection type. Adjusted incremental costs continued to increase over a 24-month study period for both payers. Use of antimicrobial wound closure for colorectal surgery is projected to significantly reduce median payer costs by $809 to $1170 per patient compared with traditional wound closure., Limitations: The inherent biases associated with retrospective databases limited this study., Conclusions: Surgical site infection cost burden was found to be higher than previously reported, with payer costs escalating over a 24-month postoperative period. Cost analysis results for adopting antimicrobial wound closure aligns with previous evidence-based studies, suggesting a fiscal benefit for its use as a component of a comprehensive evidence-based surgical care bundle for reducing the risk of infection. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B358. EVALUACIÓN DEL RIESGO Y LA CARGA ECONÓMICA DE LA INFECCIÓN DEL SITIO QUIRÚRGICO DESPUÉS DE UNA CIRUGÍA COLORRECTAL UTILIZANDO UNA BASE DE DATOS LONGITUDINAL DE EE.UU.: ¿EXISTE UN PAPEL PARA LA TECNOLOGÍA INNOVADORA DE CIERRE DE HERIDAS ANTIMICROBIANAS PARA REDUCIR EL RIESGO DE INFECCIÓN?: Los procedimientos quirúrgicos colorrectales suponen una carga considerable para los sistemas de salud debido al alto riesgo de complicaciones, particularmente las infecciones del sitio quirúrgico. El riesgo de infección posoperatoria del sitio quirúrgico colorrectal es uno de los más altos de cualquier especialidad quirúrgica.El propósito de este estudio fue determinar la incidencia, el costo de las infecciones después de la cirugía colorrectal y el beneficio económico potencial del uso del cierre de la herida con antimicrobianos para mejorar los resultados de los pacientes.Análisis retrospectivo de cohorte observacional y análisis de costo probabilístico.El análisis utilizó la base de datos para pacientes colorrectales en los Estados Unidos entre 2014 y 2018.Un total de 107,665 pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal.Se identificó una tasa de infección entre 3 y 180 días después de la operación, los factores de riesgo de infección, los costos de infección durante 24 meses posteriores a la operación por tipo de pagador (pagadores comerciales y Medicare), y los costos potenciales evitados por paciente utilizando una tecnología innovadora de cierre de heridas basada en evidencias.Infecciones del sitio quirúrgico, diagnosticadas postoperatoriamente en el 23,9% de los pacientes (4,0% incisional superficial y 19,9% incisional profunda / espacio orgánico). Los factores de riesgo aumentaron significativamente el riesgo de infección profunda por incisión / espacio orgánico e incluyeron comorbilidades selectivas del paciente, edad, tipo de pagador y tipo de admisión. Después de 12 meses, el aumento de los costos asociados con las infecciones varió de $ 36,429 a $ 144,809 para los pagadores comerciales y de $ 17,551 a $ 102,280 para Medicare, según el tipo de infección del sitio quirúrgico. Los costos incrementales ajustados continuaron aumentando durante un período de estudio de 24 meses para ambos pagadores. Se prevé que el uso del cierre antimicrobiano de la herida para la cirugía colorrectal reducirá significativamente los costos medios del pagador en $ 809- $ 1,170 por paciente en comparación con el cierre tradicional de la herida.Los sesgos inherentes asociados a las bases de datos retrospectivas limitaron este estudio.Se encontró que la carga del costo de la infección del sitio quirúrgico es mayor que la reportada previamente, y los costos del pagador aumentaron durante un período postoperatorio de 24 meses. Los resultados del análisis de costos para la adopción del cierre de heridas antimicrobianas se alinean con estudios previos basados en evidencia, lo que sugiere un beneficio fiscal para su uso como componente de un paquete integral de atención quirúrgica basada en evidencia para reducir el riesgo de infección. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B358.

The standard of practice for perioperative hair removal is largely based on research that is outdated and underpowered. Although there is evidence to support the practice of clipping instead of shaving, current recommendations are to remove hair only when absolutely necessary. Human hair is bacteria-laden and challenging to disinfect, and clipping can be a safe method of hair removal that does not damage the skin. This article considers the removal of hair at the incision site with clippers, either before the patient enters the OR or in a manner that completely contains clipped hair, for every procedure, not just when absolutely necessary. There have been only two studies to date comparing clipping with no hair removal; more research is needed on this subject., (© AORN, Inc, 2019.)

The use of atmospheric low-temperature plasma (AP) on chronic wounds and its effect on microbial bioburden in open wounds has not been explored with a systematic review and meta-analysis. PRISMA guidelines were followed and PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), which compared AP with no AP for the management of open, chronic wounds. The primary outcomes of reduction of bioburden or wound size were included. Meta-analyses were performed; odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted and pooled in a random effects model. Four RCTs investigated the effect of AP on chronic wound healing. Chronic wounds treated with AP did not show a significant improvement in healing (AP vs control: OR = 1.46; 95% CI = 0.89-2.38; P = 0.13). Five further RCTs investigated the reduction of bioburden in wounds, but AP demonstrated no significant reduction of bioburden (AP vs control: OR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.45-1.62; P = 0.63). All nine RCTs recorded the presence of any severe adverse events (SAEs) in the 268 patients studied, with only one unrelated SAE identified in each group (AP vs control: OR = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.05-19.96; P = 1.00). Use of AP in wound care is safe, but the retrieved evidence and meta-analysis show that there is no clinical benefit of AP in chronic open wounds using currently available AP device settings., (© 2018 The Authors. International Wound Journal published by Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Despite a growing consensus that biofilms contribute to a delay in the healing of chronic wounds, conflicting evidence pertaining to their identification and management can lead to uncertainty regarding treatment. This, in part, has been driven by reliance on in vitro data or animal models, which may not directly correlate to clinical evidence on the importance of biofilms. Limited data presented in human studies have further contributed to the uncertainty. Guidelines for care of chronic wounds with a focus on biofilms are needed to help aid the identification and management of biofilms, providing a clinical focus to support clinicians in improving patient care through evidence-based medicine., Methods: A Global Wound Biofilm Expert Panel, comprising 10 clinicians and researchers with expertise in laboratory and clinical aspects of biofilms, was identified and convened. A modified Delphi process, based on published scientific data and expert opinion, was used to develop consensus statements that could help identify and treat biofilms as part of the management of chronic nonhealing wounds. Using an electronic survey, panel members rated their agreement with statements about biofilm identification and treatment, and the management of chronic nonhealing wounds. Final consensus statements were agreed on in a face-to-face meeting., Results: Participants reached consensus on 61 statements in the following topic areas: understanding biofilms and the problems they cause clinicians; current diagnostic options; clinical indicators of biofilms; future options for diagnostic tests; treatment strategies; mechanical debridement; topical antiseptics; screening antibiofilm agents; and levels of evidence when choosing antibiofilm treatments., Conclusion: This consensus document attempts to clarify misunderstandings about the role of biofilms in clinical practice, and provides a basis for clinicians to recognize biofilms in chronic nonhealing wounds and manage patients optimally. A new paradigm for wound care, based on a stepped-down treatment approach, was derived from the consensus statements., (© 2017 by the Wound Healing Society.)

Chlorhexidine gluconate is used to prevent the accumulation of dental plaque and gingivitis, infection of the surgical site, and ventilator-associated pneumonia in maxillofacial surgery, but it is not clear whether the metabolites of chlorhexidine are detectable in the patient's saliva at clinically relevant concentrations. Forty-three patients who had orofacial operations were randomised to use a 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate (n=23), or an octenidine-based, chlorhexidine-free (n=20), mouthwash once preoperatively and three times daily for five postoperative days. After the first, 8.7 (23.3) mg/L chlorhexidine (0.7%-2.5% of the total amount used) was measured in saliva. The concentration increased to 15.2 (6.2) mg/L after the second rinse (first postoperative day), and peaked at 29.4 (11.2) mg/L on the fourth postoperative day. It remained detectable for up to 12hours after the last one, but was not detectable in serum or urine at any time. The potentially carcinogenic metabolite p-chloroaniline was detectable in saliva at higher concentrations in the chlorhexidine group (0.55mg/L) than the octenidine group (0.21mg/L), and p-chloronitrobenzene was detected in both groups in only minimal concentrations (0.001-0.21mg/L). Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwashes do increase the concentration of p-chloroaniline, but a single use seems to be safe. Whether prolonged exposure over many years may have carcinogenic potential is still not clear. Based on the hitherto unknown kinetics of p-chloroaniline in saliva, the recent recommendation of the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA to limit the use of a chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash to a maximum of six months seems to be justified., (Copyright © 2016 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. All rights reserved.)

Scope and Significance: The topical use of antiseptics for wound care has a role in an antimicrobial stewardship strategy. However, the details of this role need clarification. Further clinical research into the use of topical antiseptics in wound care would lower the risk of furthering antibiotic resistance and contribute to more effective antibiotic use. As part of this research, experimental and surveillance data are needed on the resistance and tolerance patterns associated with topical antiseptic use in wound infections. Objective: The development of antibiotic resistance presents global challenges in terms of patient harm and increased healthcare costs. The treatment of "at risk" and infected wounds contributes to this conundrum. Synergies between antibiotics and antiseptics and their appropriate combined use need exploration. Approach: A review of available evidence on the appropriateness of antiseptics as a fundamental component of antimicrobial stewardship strategies has been undertaken. Innovation: Opening up new ways of thinking and identifying gaps of knowledge will lead to optimizing justification of antimicrobial choices and combinations. This may lead to changes in practice in terms of solutions for the prevention and treatment of wound infection. Conclusion: Antiseptics are an integral part of antimicrobial stewardship strategies for the prevention and treatment of surgical site and chronic open wound infections., Competing Interests: The content of this article was expressly written by the authors listed. No Ghostwriters were used to write this article.

Background: Despite several randomized trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses that have demonstrated the effectiveness of antimicrobial (triclosan-coated or -impregnated) sutures (TCS), the clinical and economic impact of using these sutures compared with conventional non-antimicrobial-coated absorbable sutures (NCS) remains poorly documented., Methods: An independent systematic review and meta-analysis of all published evidence from January 2005 to September 2016 comparing TCS with NCS was conducted. Surgical-site infection (SSI) was the primary outcome. The results of the meta-analysis were used in a decision-tree deterministic and stochastic cost model, using the National Health Service (NHS England)-based cost of inpatient admissions for infections and differential costs of TCS versus NCS., Results: Thirty-four studies were included in the final assessment from an initial 163 identified citations; 20 of 34 studies were randomized, and 17 of 34 reported blinding of physicians and assessors. Using a random-effects model, the odds ratio for SSI in the TCS compared with NCS control groups was statistically significant (odds ratio 0·61, 95 per cent c.i. 0·52 to 0·73; P < 0·001). There was significant heterogeneity (I 2 = 49 per cent). Using random-effects event estimates of SSI for TCS and NCS for each individual wound type, the mean savings per surgical procedure from using antimicrobial sutures were significant: £91·25 (90 per cent c.i. 49·62 to 142·76) (€105·09 (57·15 to 164·41); exchange rate 15 November 2016) across all wound types., Conclusion: The reviewed literature suggested that antimicrobial sutures may result in significant savings across various surgical wound types., (© 2017 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: The global impact of surgical site infections (SSIs) on health-care systems is considerable: many are related to the formation of a microbial biofilm. Biofilm plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of implantable device-related infections and are also important in persistent postoperative skin and soft tissue wound infections., Method: PubMed and OVID databases were searched for relevant articles regarding biofilm-associated infection in surgery, including epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment and management., Results: Biofilm-associated infections increase the use of health-care resources, prolong length of stay, increase cost of antibiotic therapy, result in additional surgical revisions and extend rehabilitation after discharge from health care. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the most common isolates recovered from device-related infections. Early infection occurs within two weeks of implantation and is associated with intraoperative wound contamination; late-onset infections are often occult prolonging recognition by weeks, months and in some cases, years. Biofilm is a physical barrier against antibodies and granulocytic cell populations which may also impede the penetration of antibiotics. The ideal strategy for preventing biofilm-associated SSI is to prevent intraoperative contamination through compliance with effective surgical care bundles. Management of postoperative biofilm-associated infections involves surgical debridement followed by irrigation with antimicrobial agents and removal of infected devices, followed by insertion of antimicrobial adjuncts such as antimicrobial spacers, beads or sutures together with selective therapeutic agents that penetrate the mature biofilm., Conclusion: Biofilm-associated infections are a significant source of postoperative morbidity and mortality. Appropriate interventional strategies are warranted to reduce the risk of intraoperative contamination., Declaration of Interest: The authors have no conflicts.

Background: Intra-operative surgical site irrigation (lavage) is common practice in surgical procedures in general, with all disciplines advocating some form of irrigation before incision closure. This practice, however, has been neither standardized nor is there compelling evidence that it effectively reduces the risk of surgical site infection (SSI). This narrative review addresses the laboratory and clinical evidence that is available to support the practice of irrigation of the abdominal cavity and superficial/deep incisional tissues, using specific irrigation solutions at the end of an operative procedure to reduce the microbial burden at wound closure., Methods: Review of PubMed and OVID for pertinent, scientific, and clinical publications in the English language was performed., Results: Incision irrigation was found to afford a three-fold benefit: First, to hydrate the bed; second, to assist in allowing better examination of the area immediately before closure; and finally, by removing superficial and deep incisional contamination and lowering the bioburden, expedite the healing process. The clinical practice of intra-operative peritoneal lavage is highly variable and is dependent solely on surgeon preference. By contrast, intra-operative irrigation after device-related procedures has become a standard of care for the prophylaxis of acute peri-prosthetic infection. The clinical evidence that supports the use of antibiotic irrigation is limited and based on retrospective analysis and few acceptable randomized controlled trials. The results of laboratory and animal studies using aqueous 0.05% chlorhexidine gluconate are favorable, suggesting that further studies are justified to determine its clinical efficacy., Conclusion: The adoption of appropriate and standardized intra-operative irrigation practices into peri-operative care bundles, which include other evidence-based strategies (weight-based antimicrobial prophylaxis, antimicrobial sutures, maintenance of normothermia, and glycemic control), offers an inexpensive and effective method to reduce the risk of post-operative SSI and deserves further evaluation.

Background: Few studies have explored the microbial contamination of glove boxes in clinical settings. The objective of this observational study was to investigate whether a new glove packaging system in which single gloves are dispensed vertically, cuff end first, has lower levels of contamination on the gloves and on the surface around the box aperture compared with conventional glove boxes., Methods: Seven participating sites were provided with vertical glove dispensing systems (modified boxes) and conventional boxes. Before opening glove boxes, the surface around the aperture was sampled microbiologically to establish baseline levels of superficial contamination. Once the glove boxes were opened, the first pair of gloves in each box was sampled for viable bacteria. Thereafter, testing sites were visited on a weekly basis over a period of six weeks and the same microbiological assessments were made., Results: The surface near the aperture of the modified boxes became significantly less contaminated over time compared with the conventional boxes (P<0.001), with an average of 46.7% less contamination around the aperture. Overall, gloves from modified boxes showed significantly less colony-forming unit contamination than gloves from conventional boxes (P<0.001). Comparing all sites over the entire six-week period, gloves from modified boxes had 88.9% less bacterial contamination., Conclusion: This simple improvement to glove box design reduces contamination of unused gloves. Such modifications could decrease the risk of microbial cross-transmission in settings that use gloves. However, such advantages do not substitute for strict hand hygiene compliance and appropriate use of non-sterile, single-use gloves., (Copyright © 2016 The Healthcare Infection Society. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. Preadmission skin antisepsis, while controversial, has gained acceptance as a strategy for reducing the risk of SSI. In this study, we analyze the benefit of an electronic alert system for enhancing compliance to preadmission application of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)., Design, Setting, and Participants: Following informed consent, 100 healthy volunteers in an academic, tertiary care medical center were randomized to 5 chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) skin application groups: 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 consecutive applications. Participants were further randomized into 2 subgroups: with or without electronic alert. Skin surface concentrations of CHG (μg/mL) were analyzed using a colorimetric assay at 5 separate anatomic sites., Intervention: Preadmission application of chlorhexidine gluconate, 2%, Results: Mean composite skin surface CHG concentrations in volunteer participants receiving EA following 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 applications were 1,040.5, 1,334.4, 1,278.2, 1,643.9, and 1,803.1 µg/mL, respectively, while composite skin surface concentrations in the no-EA group were 913.8, 1,240.0, 1,249.8, 1,194.4, and 1,364.2 µg/mL, respectively (ANOVA, P<.001). Composite ratios (CHG concentration/minimum inhibitory concentration required to inhibit the growth of 90% of organisms [MIC90]) for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 applications using the 2% CHG cloth were 208.1, 266.8, 255.6, 328.8, and 360.6, respectively, representing CHG skin concentrations effective against staphylococcal surgical pathogens. The use of an electronic alert system resulted in significant increase in skin concentrations of CHG in the 4- and 5-application groups (P<.04 and P<.007, respectively)., Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest an evidence-based standardized process that includes use of an Internet-based electronic alert system to improve patient compliance while maximizing skin surface concentrations effective against MRSA and other staphylococcal surgical pathogens.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are probably the most preventable of the health care-associated infections. Despite the widespread international introduction of level I evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of SSIs, such as that of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the UK and the surgical care improvement project (SCIP) of the USA, SSI rates have not measurably fallen. The care bundle approach is an accepted method of packaging best, evidence-based measures into routine care for all patients and, common to many guidelines for the prevention of SSI, includes methods for preoperative removal of hair (where appropriate), rational antibiotic prophylaxis, avoidance of perioperative hypothermia, management of perioperative blood glucose and effective skin preparation. Reasons for poor compliance with care bundles are not clear and have not matched the wide uptake and perceived benefit of the WHO 'Safe Surgery Saves Lives' checklist. Recommendations include the need for further research and continuous updating of guidelines; comprehensive surveillance, using validated definitions that facilitate benchmarking of anonymised surgeon-specific SSI rates; assurance that incorporation of checklists and care bundles has taken place; the development of effective communication strategies for all health care providers and those who commission services and comprehensive information for patients., (© 2014 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2014 Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

This prospective, randomised study compares a new transforming methacrylate dressing (TMD) with a silver-containing carboxymethylcellulose dressing (CMC-Ag) after application to split-thickness skin graft (STSG) donor sites. This was an unblinded, non-inferiority, between-patient, comparison study that involved patients admitted to a single-centre burn unit who required two skin graft donor sites. Each patient's donor sites were covered immediately after surgery: one donor site with TMD and the other with CMC-Ag. The donor sites were evaluated until healing or until 24 days post-application, whichever came first. Study endpoints were time to healing, daily pain scores, number of dressing changes, patient comfort and physicians' and patients' willingness to use the dressings in the future. Nineteen patients had both the dressings applied. No statistically significant difference was noted in time to healing between the two dressings (14·2 days using TMD compared with 13·2 days using CMC-Ag). When pain scores were compared, TMD resulted in statistically significantly less pain at three different time periods (2-5 days, 6-10 days and 11-15 days; P < 0·001 at all time periods). Patients also reported greater comfort with TMD (P < 0·001). Users rated TMD as being less easy to use because of the time and technique required for application. Reductions in pain and increased patient comfort with the use of the TMD dressing, compared with CMC-Ag, were seen as clinical benefits as these are the major issues in donor site management., (© 2013 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2013 Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

A review is presented of the published experimental and clinical research into the infection control hazards of using forced air-warming (FAW) in operating theatres to prevent inadvertent hypothermia. This evidence has been reviewed with emphasis on the use of ultra-clean ventilation, any interaction it has with different types of patient warming (and FAW in particular), and any related increased risk of surgical site infection (SSI). We conclude that FAW does contaminate ultra-clean air ventilation; however, there appears to be no definite link to an increased risk of SSI based on current research. Nevertheless, whereas this remains unproven, we recommend that surgeons should at least consider alternative patient-warming systems in areas where contamination of the operative field may be critical. Although this is not a systematic review of acceptable randomized controlled clinical trials, which do not exist, it does identify that there is a need for definitive research in this field., (Copyright © 2014 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To estimate the cost-effectiveness of silver dressings using a health economic model based on time-to-wound-healing in hard-to-heal chronic venous leg ulcers (VLUs)., Background: Chronic venous ulceration affects 1-3% of the adult population and typically has a protracted course of healing, resulting in considerable costs to the healthcare system. The pathogenesis of VLUs includes excessive and prolonged inflammation which is often related to critical colonisation and early infection. The use of silver dressings to control this bioburden and improve wound healing rates remains controversial., Methods: A decision tree was constructed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of treatment with silver compared with non-silver dressings for four weeks in a primary care setting. The outcomes: 'Healed ulcer', 'Healing ulcer' or 'No improvement' were developed, reflecting the relative reduction in ulcer area from baseline to four weeks of treatment. A data set from a recent meta-analysis, based on four RCTs, was applied to the model., Results: Treatment with silver dressings for an initial four weeks was found to give a total cost saving (£141.57) compared with treatment with non-silver dressings. In addition, patients treated with silver dressings had a faster wound closure compared with those who had been treated with non-silver dressings., Conclusion: The use of silver dressings improves healing time and can lead to overall cost savings. These results can be used to guide healthcare decision makers in evaluating the economic aspects of treatment with silver dressings in hard-to-heal chronic VLUs.

A flexible methacrylate powder dressing (Altrazeal®) transforms into a wound contour conforming matrix once in contact with wound exudate. We hypothesised that it may also serve as a drug delivery vehicle for antiseptics. The antimicrobial efficacy and influence on bacterial growth kinetics in combination with three antiseptics was investigated in an in vitro porcine wound model. Standardized in vitro wounds were contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA; ATCC 33591) and divided into six groups: no dressing (negative control), methacrylate dressing alone, and combinations with application of 0.02% Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB), 0.4% PHMB, 0.1% PHMB + 0.1% betaine, 7.7 mg/mL Povidone-iodine (PVP-iodine), and 0.1% Octenidine-dihydrochloride (OCT) + 2% phenoxyethanol. Bacterial load per gram tissue was measured over five days. The highest reduction was observed with PVP-iodine at 24 h to log10 1.43 cfu/g, followed by OCT at 48 h to log10 2.41 cfu/g. Whilst 0.02% PHMB resulted in a stable bacterial load over 120 h to log10 4.00 cfu/g over 120 h, 0.1% PHMB + 0.1% betaine inhibited growth during the first 48 h, with slightly increasing bacterial numbers up to log10 5.38 cfu/g at 120 h. These results indicate that this flexible methacrylate dressing can be loaded with various antiseptics serving as drug delivery system. Depending on the selected combination, an individually shaped and controlled antibacterial effect may be achieved using the same type of wound dressing.

The TIME acronym (tissue, infection/inflammation, moisture balance and edge of wound) was first developed more than 10 years ago, by an international group of wound healing experts, to provide a framework for a structured approach to wound bed preparation; a basis for optimising the management of open chronic wounds healing by secondary intention. However, it should be recognised that the TIME principles are only a part of the systematic and holistic evaluation of each patient at every wound assessment. This review, prepared by the International Wound Infection Institute, examines how new data and evidence generated in the intervening decade affects the original concepts of TIME, and how it is translated into current best practice. Four developments stand out: recognition of the importance of biofilms (and the need for a simple diagnostic), use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), evolution of topical antiseptic therapy as dressings and for wound lavage (notably, silver and polyhexamethylene biguanide) and expanded insight of the role of molecular biological processes in chronic wounds (with emerging diagnostics and theranostics). Tissue: a major advance has been the recognition of the value of repetitive and maintenance debridement and wound cleansing, both in time-honoured and novel methods (notably using NPWT and hydrosurgery). Infection/inflammation: clinical recognition of infection (and non infective causes of persisting inflammation) is critical. The concept of a bacterial continuum through contamination, colonisation and infection is now widely accepted, together with the understanding of biofilm presence. There has been a return to topical antiseptics to control bioburden in wounds, emphasised by the awareness of increasing antibiotic resistance. Moisture: the relevance of excessive or insufficient wound exudate and its molecular components has led to the development and use of a wide range of dressings to regulate moisture balance, and to protect peri-wound skin, and optimise healing. Edge of wound: several treatment modalities are being investigated and introduced to improve epithelial advancement, which can be regarded as the clearest sign of wound healing. The TIME principle remains relevant 10 years on, with continuing important developments that incorporate new evidence for wound care., (© 2012 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.)

Free flap monitoring is essential to the early detection of compromise thereby increasing the chance of successful salvage surgery. Many alternatives to classical clinical monitoring have been proposed. This study seeks to investigate a relatively new monitoring technology: near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Patients were recruited prospectively to the study from a single center. During the research period, 10 patients underwent reconstruction with a free deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP). Measurements of flap perfusion were taken using NIRS in the preoperative and intraoperative phases and postoperatively for 72 hours. NIRS showed characteristic changes in all cases which returned to theater for pedicle compromise. In these cases, NIRS identified pedicle compromise prior to clinical identification. There were no false-positives. NIRS accurately identified all compromised flaps in our study. In most cases, there was an evidence of changes in oxygen saturation on NIRS prior to clinical observation. Further research, ideally double blind randomized control trials with large sample groups would be required to definitively establish NIRS as an ideal flap monitoring modality., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is the fourth commonest healthcare-associated infection and complicates at least 5% of open operations. In a randomized clinical trial, antimicrobial-coated sutures were compared with their conventional counterparts, polyglactin and poliglecaprone, for skin closure after breast cancer surgery to assess their role in reducing the rate of SSI., Methods: Between November 2008 and February 2011, 150 female patients presenting with breast cancer to a single center were randomized to skin closure with antimicrobial-coated or plain sutures. Postoperatively, SSI was defined using the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definitions and scored using the ASEPSIS or Southampton systems by trained, blinded observers with close post-discharge surveillance and patient diaries. Surgeons and patients were blinded to the type of suture used., Results: Using CDC criteria, the overall rate of SSI was 18.9% at six weeks. Six patients (4.7%) needed intervention or readmission for SSI. Skin closure with antimicrobial sutures showed a non-statistically significant reduction in the SSI rate, to 15.2%, compared with conventional sutures (22.9%). A uniform tendency for fewer SSIs in the antimicrobial-coated suture group was found using ASEPSIS and Southampton scores, but again, the difference was not statistically significant., Conclusion: The previously reported high rate of SSI related to breast surgery was confirmed. Using statistical modeling and earlier reports, the study was powered to show a difference using ASEPSIS scores, but the modification used in this trial failed to find a difference. Finding a statistically significant difference would have needed two to three times the number of patients recruited. Further evaluation of antimicrobial-coated sutures is merited, particularly if used as part of a care bundle to reduce SSI after breast cancer surgery.

Objective: To review the evidence regarding the influence of oxygen as an intrinsic factor on cutaneous wound healing., Method: A literature search was performed using Ovid and the Cochrane Database with the search terms: 'Wound healing', 'Oxygen', 'Collagen', 'Angiogenesis', 'Inflammation' and 'Surgical Site Infection'. Human and animal studies were included if relevant and examined for methodological quality., Results: There are no meta-analyses of the use of oxygen in wound healing and only two randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Studies vary in methodological quality. The majority of the data comes from animal models. In total 1568 studies on wound healing and oxygen were found., Conclusion: Oxygen is vital throughout wound healing, especially in the inflammatory and proliferative phases. Research suggests that patient supplementation with oxygen could enhance bacterial killing and angiogenesis, reduce surgical site infection rates and increase wound tensile strength, facilitating improved healing., Conflict of Interest: None.

Currently, there are no generally accepted definitions for wounds at risk of infection. In clinical practice, too many chronic wounds are regarded as being at risk of infection, and therefore many topical antimicrobials - in terms of frequency and duration of use - are applied to wounds. Based on expert discussion and current knowledge, a clinical assessment score was developed. The objective of this wounds at risk (W.A.R.) score is to allow decision-making on the indication for the use of antiseptics on the basis of polihexanide. The proposed clinical classification of W.A.R. shall facilitate the decision for wound antisepsis and allow an appropriate general treatment regimen with the focus on the prevention of wound infection. The W.A.R. score is based on a clinically oriented risk assessment using concrete patient circumstances. The indication for the use of antiseptics results from the addition of differently weighted risk causes, for which points are assigned. Antimicrobial treatment is justified in the case of 3 or more points., (Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) continues to be a major complication following operations. Identification of the frequency, the causative organisms, and the risk factors for infection still requires better definition., Methods: Review of the current surgical literature was undertaken to define the epidemiology and risk factors associated with SSI., Results: The rates of SSI continue to be reported with great variability, even for the same operation. Variable classification and definitions, inconsistent auditing, and an increase in post-discharge identification of infection are partially responsible for this variation. Understanding the role of the bacterial inocula and the response of the host leads to better utilization of preventive antibiotics and enhancement of host responsiveness (e.g., tissue warming). Better applications and studies of topical antiseptics need to be undertaken because of their long history of proved value., Conclusions: With a better understanding of the risk factors and epidemiology, effective preventive strategies can be utilized to reduce the current rates of SSI.

Background: Intra-abdominal adhesions are common and challenge patients, surgeons and other healthcare providers. They are potentially preventable and several agents that act as barriers between adjacent peritoneal surfaces have been evaluated for prophylaxis. Efficacy, judged by systematic reviews, has only been undertaken in gynaecological surgery., Objectives: To determine efficacy and safety of peritoneal adhesion prophylaxis on incidence, distribution and adhesion-related intestinal obstruction after non-gynaecological surgery., Search Strategy: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane Colorectal Cancer Group specialised register, MEDLINE (1966-2008), and EMBASE (1971-2008) were searched., Selection Criteria: Blinded and non-blinded, randomised and quasi-randomised clinical trials were considered., Data Collection and Analysis: Two authors individually conducted the searches and assessed the quality of studies for inclusion which were analysed using the Revman Analyses software 5.0.0 provided by the Cochrane collaboration. Meta-analysis used a random effects model., Main Results: Seven randomised trials were eligible; six compared hyaluronic acid/carboxymethyl membrane (HA/CMC) and one 0.5% ferric hyaluronate gel against controls.HA/CMC reduced the incidence of adhesions (OR 0.15 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.43); p=0.0005) with reduced extent (WMD -25.9% (95% CI: -40.56, -11.26); p=0.0005) and severity. There was no reduction of intestinal obstruction needing surgical intervention (odds ratio: 0.84 (95% CI: 0.24, 2.7) with comparable overall morbidity and mortality.The study of 0.5% ferric hyaluronate gel was prematurely terminated and no valid conclusions could be made but there was a higher incidence of overall morbidity (OR 5.04; 95% CI: 1.1, 22.9) and ileus (OR: 9.29; 95% CI: 1.57, 54.77; p=0.01)., Implications for Practice: There is evidence that the use of HA/CMC membrane reduces incidence, extent and severity of adhesions which may, theoretically, have implications in re-operative abdominal surgery. There is no evidence that the incidence of intestinal obstruction or need for operative intervention is reduced. HA/CMC appears to be safe but there may be a risk of leak when wrapped around an anastomoses. HA/CMC may be considered for intra-abdominal, adhesion prophylaxis at a surgeon's discretion and clinical context., Implications for Research: Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of other agents in abdominal surgery in general. Synergism, using agents which target different aspects of adhesiogenesis, with exploration effectiveness in a wide range of emergency and elective surgery should be considered. Longer term outcomes of recurrent intestinal obstruction and chronic pain, identification of high risk groups of patients with evaluation of cost-effectiveness are required.

All open wounds healing by secondary intention are contaminated by bacteria and in chronic wounds this can progress through colonisation to invasive infection. Iodine products reduce bacterial load and are active against most species of micro-organisms, and certainly those encountered in chronic wound care. This review evaluates the use of iodine products in chronic wound care including povidone-iodine solutions and cadexomer iodine. Antiseptics containing iodine are relatively cheap, resistance is unknown and concerns about systemic toxicity are probably overstated. More widespread use of these agents as topical anti-microbials in chronic wound care should be considered to reduce the need for systemic antibiotics when colonisation has progressed to invasive infection with systemic signs.

Seventy-three samples of acute wound fluid were collected from 47 patients during the first 3 postoperative days (POD) following mastectomy for cancer (n=47 on POD-1, n=19 on POD-2, and n=7 POD-3). Samples were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for growth factor levels (epidermal [EGF], platelet-derived [PDGF], basic fibroblast [bFGF], transforming growth factor-beta1 [TGF-beta1], vascular endothelial [VEGF]), interleukin-6 (IL-6), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs-2, -3, -9), and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1). The levels of EGF, bFGF, PDGF, and interleukin-6 peaked on POD-1, with a significant decrease by POD-3, while total and active MMP-2, MMP-3, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 showed a progressive and significant increase from days 1 to 3. The wounds that later developed an infection (11%) were found to have a significantly lower PDGF and EGF on day 1 (PDGF, median 169 pg/mL [range, 86-2,595]) than the noninfected wounds (2,098 [17-66,506] p<0.05, Mann-Whitney U-test). Sixty-two percent patients developed a seroma and the levels of bFGF were significantly less in these patients (441 pg/mL [45-4,108]) than in those patients where there was no seroma (807 [245-3,133] p<0.05). The levels of certain growth factors in acute wound fluid may be important markers for wound outcomes.

Background: The plasminogen activator system consists of two plasminogen activators, urokinase (uPA) and tissue (tPA); PA inhibitors (PAI-1, and -2), and a cell surface receptor for uPA (uPAR). The plasminogen activator system is involved at many stages of the metastatic cascade, including matrix remodelling, cell proliferation, and migration., Aims: To compare tissue concentrations of the components of the plasminogen activator system in paired tumour tissue and normal tissue in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma, and to correlate these with the histopathological grading of the tumour., Methods: Thirty-eight paired tissue samples were analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA; ng/mg protein) for uPA, tPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and PAI-2., Results: Concentrations of uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and PAI-2 were significantly higher in tumour than in normal oral tissue (median in uPAR tumour 1.6 (range; 0.1-7.5) ng/mg protein; normal=0.2 (0-2.3), p<0.05). There were strong correlations between the concentrations of certain components of the plasminogen activator system in particular between uPA, uPAR, and PAI-1 (p<0.05). Tissue concentrations of some components of the plasminogen activator system correlated with clinical and pathological indexes of aggression of tumours, including differentiation and T-stage., Conclusion: The relation between components of the plasminogen activator system, in particular uPA, uPAR, and PAI-1 in invasion, metastasis, prognosis, and survival, requires further investigation in oral squamous cell carcinomas.

Background: Bacterial peritonitis is accompanied by a high risk of sepsis and endotoxin production resulting in physiological derangements and a high mortality rate. Localized and systemic warming improves tissue perfusion, oxygen tension, and outcomes after surgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of systemic warming as an adjunct to standard antibiotic and fluid resuscitation in patients with peritonitis., Methods: In this pilot randomized controlled trial, patients presenting with an acute abdomen were randomized into control and warmed groups using sequential envelopes. Local Ethics Committee approval was obtained. Systemic warming was delivered using the Inditherm warming mattress set at 40 degrees C. Standard oxygen, fluid resuscitation, and antibiotics were delivered simultaneously. Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores were recorded on admission and 24 h later or just prior to surgery, whichever was earlier., Results: Thirty-three patients were recruited. The APACHE II scores on admission were comparable (median 9.0 [range 2-23] and 9.0 [0-20], respectively, for the control and warmed groups (p = 0.70; Mann-Whitney U test)). No patient showed any adverse effects of warming. There were statistically significant improvements in APACHE II scores (p = 0.028; Wilcoxon signed ranks test) and the magnitude of its change (p = 0.048; Mann-Whitney U test) in the warmed group compared with the control group., Conclusions: Systemic warming may reduce physiological derangements and improve the prognosis in patients with intra-abdominal crisis. The technique may be used safely as an adjunct to standard resuscitation in peritonitis.

Background: Hypothermia is common in the operating theatre and may increase susceptibility to postoperative complications. Intraoperative systemic warming has been shown to improve outcomes of surgery. This study aimed to examine the effects of additional perioperative systemic warming on postoperative morbidity., Methods: All patients admitted for elective major abdominal surgery and fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomized into control or warming groups. Both groups were warmed during surgery, but patients in the warming group were additionally warmed 2 h before and after surgery using a conductive carbon polymer mattress., Results: The trial recruited 103 patients (56 in the control group, 47 in the warming group). Both groups were well matched for age, sex and clinical state. Patients in the warming group had lower blood loss (median 200 (range 5-1000) ml versus median 400 (range 50-2300) ml in the control group; P = 0.011) and complication rates (15 (32 per cent) of 47 versus 30 (54 per cent) of 56 in the control group; P = 0.027). There were three deaths; two in the control group (P = 0.566)., Conclusion: Extending systemic warming to the perioperative period had additional beneficial effects, with minimal additional cost and patient discomfort.

Dressings have a part to play in the management of wounds; whether they are sutured or open, usually chronic wounds of many aetiologies which are healing by secondary intention. They traditionally provide a moist wound environment, but this property has been extended through simple to complex, active dressings which can handle excessive exudate, aid in debridement, and promote disorganised, stalled healing. The control of infection remains a major challenge. Inappropriate antibiotic use risks allergy, toxicity and most importantly resistance, which is much reduced by the use of topical antiseptics (such as povidone iodine and chlorhexidine). The definition of what is an antimicrobial and the recognition of infection has proven difficult. Although silver has been recognised for centuries to inhibit infection its use in wound care is relatively recent. Evidence of the efficacy of the growing number of silver dressings in clinical trials, judged by the criteria of the Cochrane Collaboration, is lacking, but there are good indications for the use of silver dressings, to remove or reduce an increasing bioburden in burns and open wounds healing by secondary intention, or to act as a barrier against cross contamination of resistant organisms such as MRSA. More laboratory, and clinical data in particular, are needed to prove the value of the many silver dressings which are now available. Some confusion persists over the measurement of toxicity and antibacterial activity but all dressings provide an antibacterial action, involving several methods of delivery. Nanocrystalline technology appears to give the highest, sustained release of silver to a wound without clear risk of toxicity.

Background: The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) system is responsible for degradation of tissue in both normal and pathological processes, including tumour invasion and metastasis., Aim: To compare tissue concentrations of components of the MMP system between tumour tissue and normal tissue in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma, and to correlate concentrations with pathological grade of tumour., Methods: Thirty-eight paired tissue samples from tumours and normal tissue were analysed by three laboratory techniques: firstly, enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) in ng/mg protein for MMP-1, MMP-3, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) -1 and -2. Secondly, gelatinase activity assays to measure concentrations of total and endogenous active gelatinases, MMP-2 and MMP-9 (ng/mg protein). And thirdly to use quenched fluorescent substrate hydrolysis to measure total MMP activity (pM/min)., Results: The concentration of all MMPs was significantly higher in tumour than in normal oral tissue (p < 0.05, Mann-Whitney U-test). Tissue concentrations of some of these factors correlated with clinical and pathological indices of aggressiveness of tumours, including T-stage, N-stage, tumour differentiation, and anatomical level of involved nodes. However, the study was not powered to show statistical significance., Conclusion: It is the balance between proteinases and their inhibitors that controls tissue degradation at each stage of tumour invasion and metastasis. Measurement of MMPs in oral mucosal biopsy samples may establish the invasive potential of tumours at their initial presentation.

Inflammation is an essential component of normal wound healing. This study has correlated systemic (plasma) and local (wound fluid) concentrations of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-alpha], and IL-1beta) with wound healing and surgical outcome following elective colorectal surgery. Paired plasma and wound fluid samples were collected (n = 44) postoperatively (days 1, 3, 5, 7) and analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (pg/mL). Cytokine levels were significantly greater in drain fluid than plasma on each postoperative day (POD); e.g., POD 1 : IL-6; drain fluid, median, 77,050 pg/mL (range 9,928-456,408); plasma, 241 pg/mL (22-1,333). Daily profiles of IL-6 and TNF-alpha were similar in drain fluid and plasma; IL-6 levels peaked on POD 1 decreasing to POD 7, and TNF-alpha levels increased from PODs 1 to 7. However, IL-1beta in plasma peaked on POD 1 and plateaued, whereas drain fluid showed two peaks (PODs 1 and 7). Only plasma levels of cytokines correlated to clinical parameters; IL-6 levels significantly correlated with postoperative complications; e.g., POD 5, complications 92(1-597) and no complications, 14(2-217). IL-6 also correlated with tumor pathology (Dukes stage, tumor depth, vascular invasion), and TNF-alpha levels correlated with the estimated blood loss during surgery. We conclude that local wound levels of cytokines correlated with the stage of wound healing, whereas systemic levels correlated with postoperative complications and tumor pathology.

The chronic and relapsing nature of hidradenitis suppurativa leads to physical and psychological damage. The absence of a proven cure further worsens the scenario. Patient 1 was a 28-year-old woman with a 10-year history of abscesses and non healing sinuses with foul-smelling discharge from her axilla, submammary and groin areas. This led to an episode of self-harm due to severe depression. After failed medical therapy, she was referred for surgery with wide excision of the skin and healing by secondary intention. Her wounds were managed by our specialist wound clinic with the use of topical and systemic antibiotics and thus remained free from symptoms. Patient 2 was a 32-year-old woman with a similar history for 15 years. Patient 3 was a 41-year-old man with a 20-year history of discharging sinuses and abscesses. All the patients had endured a long period of medical treatment and subsequently required surgery for a long-term relief of symptoms. This has undoubtedly led to psychological symptoms and a decrease in quality of life.

Objective: To determine whether the application of warmth after hernia surgery reduces pain and aids wound healing., Method: Forty-five patients were recruited and randomised to receive either no warming;two hours of warming immediately after surgery; or seven days of warming., Results: Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower after two hours of warming immediately after surgery compared with the non-warmed patients (p<0.05). Pain scores were lower on each of the first seven postoperative days in the warmed groups compared with the non-warmed subjects. Patients in the warmed groups also had lower ASEPSIS wound scores., Conclusion: Warming may allow wounds to heal with fewer complications. In addition, warming for only two hours immediately after surgery may provide similar benefits to seven days of warming.

Perioperative hypothermia is common and adversely affects clinical outcomes due to its effect on a range of homeostatic functions. Many of these adverse consequences are preventable by the use of warming techniques. A literature search was conducted to identify relevant published articles on perioperative hypothermia and warming. The databases searched include MEDLINE (1966 to February 2005), EMBASE (1974 to February 2005), CINAHL, the Cochrane library and the health technology assessment database. Reference lists of key articles were also searched. The primary beneficial effects of warming are mediated through increased blood flow and oxygen tension at tissue level. Reduction in wound infection, blood loss and perioperative pain with warming is promising. However, more evidence from good-quality prospective randomised controlled trials is needed to evaluate the role of warming in improving overall morbidity, mortality and hospital stay as well as to clarify its role as an adjunct to resuscitation and during the pre-hospital transport phase of critically ill patients. Awareness of the risks of perioperative hypothermia is the key to prevention. Achieving normothermia throughout the patient's journey is a worthwhile goal in surgical patients.

The aim of this analysis was to examine the cost-effectiveness of Contreet Foam (A) in comparison with three other commonly used venous leg ulcer treatment protocols: Aquacel Ag (B), Actisorb Silver (C) and Iodoflex (D). A health-economic analysis reflecting the UK treatment practice and cost structure was performed. The analysis was set up to assess the cost of relative wound area reduction over a 4-week treatment period. The model was validated by a UK expert panel consisting of four wound care specialists. To assure that the 4-week model had a realistic link to cost-effectiveness of complete wound healing, a Markov analysis was also performed. Sensitivity analyses were carried out to ensure validity. Protocol A and C proved to be the most effective treatments. The mean relative reduction in wound area after 4 weeks of treatment was 50.2% (protocol A), 23.9% (protocol B), 44.6% (protocol C) and 36.0% (protocol D). Cost-effectiveness ratios showed that protocol A proved to be the most cost-effective treatment, and protocol B the least. The cost per percentage reduction in wound area was 9.50 UK pounds for protocol A, compared to 16.50-17.60 UK pounds for the other treatment options. The cost-effectiveness of complete healing (Markov analysis) and sensitivity analyses confirmed these results. Using Contreet Foam instead of the other dressing alternatives may imply savings of 2.2-4.4 million UK pounds per year to the National Health Service.

Background: Secondary peritonitis is associated with a high mortality rate and if not treated successfully leads to development of abscesses, severe sepsis and multi-organ failure. Source control and adjunctive antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment. However, no conclusive evidence suggest that one antibiotic regimen is better than any other but at the same time have a lower toxicity., Objectives: To ascertain the efficacy and adverse effects of different antibiotic regimens in treating intra-abdominal infections in adults. Outcomes were divided into primary (clinical success and effectiveness in reducing mortality) and secondary (microbiological success, preventing wound infection, intra-abdominal abscess, clinical sepsis, remote infection, superinfection, adverse reactions, duration of treatment required, effectiveness in reducing hospitalised stay, and time to defervescence)., Search Strategy: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2004), MEDLINE (from 1966 to November 2004), EMBASE (from 1980 to November 2004) and Cochrane Colorectal Cancer Group specialised register SR-COLOCA. Bibliographies of identified studies were screened for further relevant trials., Selection Criteria: Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing different antibiotic regimens in the treatment of secondary peritonitis in adults were selected. Trials reporting gynaecological or traumatic peritonitis were excluded from this review. Ambiguity regarding suitability of trials were discussed among the review team., Data Collection and Analysis: Six reviewers independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Data collection was standardised using data collection form to ensure uniformity among reviewers. Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and the results expressed as odds ratio for dichotomous outcomes, or weight mean difference for continuous data with 95% confidence intervals., Main Results: Fourty studies with 5094 patients met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen different comparative antibiotic regimens were reported. All antibiotics showed equivocal comparability in terms of clinical success. Mortality did not differ between the regimens. Despite the potential high toxicity profile of regimens using aminoglycosides, this was not demonstrated in this review. The reason for this could be the inherent bias within clinical trials in the form of patient selection and stringency in monitoring drug levels., Authors' Conclusions: No specific recommendations can be made for the first line treatment of secondary peritonitis in adults with antibiotics, as all regimens showed equivocal efficacy. Other factors such as local guidelines and preferences, ease of administration, costs and availability must therefore be taken into consideration in deciding the antibiotic regimen of choice. Future trials should attempt to stratify patients and perform intention-to-treat analysis to allow better external validity.