Lecture on Surgical Site Infection Prevention Delivered at Army Hospital (R&R)

Lecture on Surgical Site Infection Prevention Delivered at Army Hospital (R&R)

New Delhi, August 2024 – Last week, Army Hospital (Research and Referral) hosted a critical lecture on the prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs), delivered by Dr. (Major) RS Rengan. The session, sponsored by Johnson & Johnson, drew considerable interest from both postgraduate students and senior faculty members.

The Impact of Surgical Site Infections

SSIs are a major concern in surgery, leading to complications such as prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and severe health risks. Dr. Rengan emphasized the need for stringent preventive measures, noting that despite advancements in surgical techniques, SSIs remain a prevalent issue. He shared data indicating that global SSI rates range from 2% to 20%, with higher rates in certain high-risk procedures

Preventive Strategies

Dr. Rengan discussed the multifaceted factors contributing to SSIs, including patient age, health conditions, and the type and duration of surgery. He stressed the importance of a collaborative effort among the entire healthcare team, from the operating room staff to post-operative care providers.

A key focus of the lecture was the use of antibacterial sutures as an additional defense against infection. Dr. Rengan presented evidence showing that these sutures could reduce SSI rates by up to 30%, particularly in surgeries involving potentially contaminated areas. However, he cautioned that their effectiveness is maximized when used alongside other preventive measures like proper antisepsis and preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis.

Interactive Session and Takeaways

The lecture fostered an interactive environment, with participants discussing the challenges of SSI prevention. Senior faculty members, including Major General Kanwarjit Singh and Brigadier Jaswinder Singh, shared insights, reinforcing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

Dr. Rengan concluded with practical advice, urging vigilance in SSI prevention and the importance of continuous education in infection control. The lecture underscored Army Hospital (R&R)’s commitment to patient safety and advancing surgical care, providing valuable strategies for reducing SSI rates and improving patient outcomes.