Reducing the burden of surgical site infections in low and middle-income countries: challenges and recommendations.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant and growing challenge in surgical care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where limited resources and inadequate infection control amplify their impact. Affecting up to 25% of surgical patients in some regions, SSIs lead to prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and substantial patient suffering. Multidrug-resistant pathogens and inadequate adherence to global guidelines exacerbate the issue, highlighting the need for tailored interventions. Innovative approaches, such as active surveillance programs, routine changes in surgical practices, and enhanced patient education, have shown promise in reducing SSI rates. By prioritizing infection prevention strategies, resource optimization, and collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and policymakers, LMICs can significantly improve surgical outcomes and reduce the burden of SSIs.