Development and Validation of a Scoring System to Predict Surgical Site Infection After Ventral Hernia Repair: A Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative Study.

INTRODUCTION

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a rare but significant complication following an elective ventral hernia repair. This study aims to develop a risk assessment tool in order to predict the risk of developing SSIs postoperatively.

METHODS

All patients undergoing an elective ventral hernia repair were identified using the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative (MSQC) database. Patients' demographics, comorbidities and technical aspects of the operations were extracted. Logistic regressions were used to create a predictive scoring system for SSIs.

RESULTS

A total of 4983 were included. SSIs occurred in 3.4% of the patient population. A stepwise forward logistic regression identified the need to use drains, BMI, wound classification at the end of the surgery, presence of severe adhesions, a history of CAD, the need for intensive care after surgery, the use of pressors, EtOH abuse and history of PVD as being independently associated with the development of postoperative surgical site infections.

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing an elective hernia repair, the incidence of SSI is low. Several preoperative and perioperative factors can contribute to the development of SSIs.