Evaluating risk factors for surgical site infections and the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotics in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant complication in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), affecting patient outcomes and healthcare costs.

Aim: To identify risk factors associated with SSIs and evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic antibiotics in reducing these infections.

Methods: A comprehensive retrospective evaluation was conducted on 400 patients who underwent LC from January 2022 to January 2024. Patients were divided into infected (n = 36) and non-infected (n = 364) groups based on the occurrence of SSIs. Data collected included age, diabetes mellitus status, use of prophylactic antibiotics, and specific surgical complications. Statistical analyses using SPSS (Version 27.0) involved univariate and multivariate logistic regression to determine factors influencing the risk of SSIs.

Results: The use of prophylactic antibiotics significantly reduced the incidence of SSIs (χ² = 68.34, P < 0.01). Older age (≥ 60 years) and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus were identified as significant risk factors. Surgical complications like insufficient cystic duct stump, gallbladder perforation, and empyema also increased SSI risk. Notably, factors such as intraoperative blood loss and operation time did not significantly impact SSI occurrence.

Conclusion: Prophylactic antibiotics are effective in reducing the risk of SSIs in patients undergoing LC. Age, diabetes mellitus, and certain surgical complications significantly contribute to the risk. Effective management of these risk factors is essential to improve surgical outcomes and reduce the incidence of SSIs.