Modified Delphi RAND/UCLA Consensus on Recommendations for Preventing Surgical Site Infections in Colorectal Surgery

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major health care issue, with worse outcomes and higher costs in Latin America than in other countries. To reduce SSIs in colorectal surgery (CRS), we conducted a mixed-method study between May and December 2021, which included a literature review, Delphi expert consensus panel, and SSI reduction recommendations. The literature review identified 150 relevant articles, deriving 19 recommendations based on the GRADE framework. A panel of 14 experts from Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, specializing in infection control, participated in a modified Delphi consensus process. They evaluated the recommendations using a Likert scale and assessed 13 criteria to reach consensus. After rounds of evaluation and expert discussions, 6 recommendations achieved consensus and were deemed appropriate for SSI prevention in CRS: presurgical bathing, surgical antibiotic prophylaxis, mechanical colon preparation, preincision antisepsis with alcohol and antisepsis, monitoring of hyperglycemic patients, and control of normothermia. Implementing such a multifaceted set of recommendations presents challenges, and a bundled approach has been suggested to improve the adherence to complex prevention strategies. Previous research has underscored the importance of effective implementation strategies, including engagement, education, execution, and evaluation, as well as fostering a culture of safety and readiness for change. This study offers expert recommendations for preventing SSIs in CRS, particularly in Latin America. These are crucial for regional health care organizations. Compliance with basic infection prevention measures remains a concern. A bundled approach was suggested to evaluate adherence to health care protocols in Argentina and Uruguay. Aligning guidelines and practices can increase patient safety and reduce the impact of SSIs on Latin American health care.