The role of other stakeholders than the surgeon in relation to surgical site infections following total joint replacement


Published online: Dec 27 2015

Bart STUYTS, Elke VAN DEN EEDEN, Peter FENNEMA

From Sint-Augustinus HospitalWilrijk, Belgium

Abstract

In contemporary orthopaedics, surgical site infections (SSIs) can have significant negative consequences for both patients and the healthcare system overall. To date, most efforts at combating the risk of SSIs have focused on the role of the surgeon, yet recent data suggest that a more expansive approach is warranted. The current review offers an overview of the most-relevant factors associated with SSIs in orthopaedic surgery, and the crucial role that the full surgical staff can play in addressing them.