TMSS Medical College Journal

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant concern in healthcare, contributing to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens further complicates the management of SSIs. This study aims to investigate the distribution of pathogens and their antibiotic resistance patterns in a surgical ward and find out the appropriate antibiotic for treatment in Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Bogura, Bangladesh from 01.01.2023 to 31.12.2023. The study included a total of 102 patients who had undergone surgical procedures and had given informed consent for participation in the study. Specimens for culture and sensitivity tests were collected from patients presenting with signs of surgical site infections (SSIs). These specimens included pus, wound swabs, and urine samples, which were then analyzed to identify the bacterial pathogens and their antibiotic resistance profiles. Results: The study population consisted of 102 individuals, with 36.27% aged 50 years and above, and a mean age of 40.41 years (SD + 18.4). Gender distribution was relatively balanced, with 55.88% males and 44.12% females. Most specimens for culture and sensitivity tests were pus samples (65.69%), followed by wound swabs (31.37%) and urine samples (2.94%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently isolated organism (28.43%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (23.53%), Pseudomonas spp. (21.57%), and Escherichia coli (11.76%). All specimens exhibited profuse bacterial growth. Notably, high antibiotic resistance rates were observed: Linezolid (70.59%), Ceftazidime (60.78%), Ceftriaxone (57.84%), Amoxiclave (58.82%), Ciprofloxacin (55.88%), Levofloxacin (48.04%), Vancomycin (4.12%), Colistin (45.10%), and Co-Trimoxazole (56.86%). Lower resistance rates were found for Meropenem (18.63%), Tigecycline (31.37%), Moxifloxacin (1.96%), and Nitrofurantoin (4.90%). Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of SSIs and significant antibiotic resistance among common pathogens in the surgical ward. These findings underscore the urgent need for robust antibiotic stewardship and stringent infection control measures to combat the spread of resistant bacteria and improve patient outcomes. Public education on the rational use of antibiotics and adherence to medical advice is also essential to mitigate the issue of antibiotic resistance.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major concern globally, contributing significantly to patient morbidity, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. The importance of effective infection control measures in surgical wards cannot be overstated, as they play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality rates. Globally, the incidence of SSIs varies, with a systematic review and meta-analysis estimating a pooled 30-day cumulative incidence of 11% among general surgical patients.! Another study found a global pooled incidence of SSIs to be 2.5%, with the highest rates observed in the African region.” These statistics underscore the need for stringent infection control practices across healthcare settings worldwide. Infection control practices in surgical wards are critical in minimizing the risk of SSIs. Effective infection control not only reduces the incidence of these infections but also mitigates the burden on healthcare systems.