What Researchers Did
Researchers retrospectively reviewed data from 1,875 patients who underwent open lumbar spinal surgery over 15 years to identify and analyze postoperative surgical site infections (SSIs).
What They Found
Out of 1,875 patients (1,176 with implants, 699 without), 38 developed postoperative surgical site infections (SSIs). The overall SSI rate was 2.03%, with patients who received spinal implants having a higher incidence of SSIs compared to those without implants.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients undergoing lumbar spinal surgery should be aware of the potential for surgical site infections, particularly if implants are used. Healthcare providers can use this information to inform patients and implement preventative strategies to minimize infection risk.
Canadian Relevance
There is no direct Canadian connection mentioned in this study.
Study Limitations
The study's findings are limited by its retrospective design and reliance on data from a single institution.