Incidence and Predictors of Surgical Site Infection in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting at a Reference Hospital in Brazil: Influence of Sex, Nutritional Risk, and Body Mass Index.

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical site infection (SSI) following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a significant challenge that impacts quality of life and healthcare costs. Despite advances in surgical techniques and infection control measures, wound complications remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the incidence and factors associated with an increased risk of developing postoperative SSI in patients undergoing CABG.

Methods: Retrospective cohort study with patients undergoing isolated CABG in a Brazilian hospital organization. Clinical data were collected through the hospital's information system. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine risk factors associated with SSI. The analyses were performed using Jamovi® software, with a significance set at P < 0.05.

Results: A total of 412 patients were enrolled in the study, comprising 292 (70.8%) men, with a mean age of 62.7 ± 8.6 years. A total of 54 (13.1%) patients developed SSI. After multivariate regression analysis, the odds ratios (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) of independent predictors of SSI were female sex (OR: 2.067; 95% CI: 1.030 - 4.148), higher preoperative body mass index (OR: 1.113; 95% CI: 1.038 - 1.194), nutritional risk (Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 score ≥ 3) (OR: 2.468; 95% CI: 1.034 - 5.886), and hospitalization time (OR: 1.057; 95% CI: 1.031 - 1.082).

Conclusion: There are patient-related factors that increase the likelihood of developing an SSI after CABG. These findings suggest that addressing modifiable perioperative SSI risk factors may be beneficial in reducing SSI rates and enhancing postoperative recovery.