A casecontrol study on infection following skin and soft tissue expander implantation

Abstract:

ObjectiveTo analyze the risk factors of postoperative infection in patients with skin and soft tissue expander (SSTE) implantation, and provide scientific evidence for making intervention strategies.MethodsQuestionnaires were made, relevant data were obtained through medical record reviewing and telephone inquiry, and casecontrol method was used to conduct statistical analysis.ResultsA total of 532 patients were with SSTE  implantation, 22 (4.14%) of whom had infection, and 14 infected patients were included in this research. Univariate logistic regression analysis indicated that there were significant difference in the number of the embedded expanders (OR=1.58,95%CI: 1.20-2.32), the implantation site(OR=1.75,95%CI :1.30-2.32), living circumstances of patients(OR=1.87,95%CI:1.84-2.65), and whether expanders were regularly disinfected(OR=2.66,95%CI:1.76-4.32)（all P<0.05）. Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that living circumstances of patients(OR=1.55,95%CI: 1.15-2.25) and whether expanders were regularly disinfected (OR=3.66,95%CI: 2.86-3.22)were two main factors entering the regression equation（both P<0.01）.ConclusionLiving circumstances of patients and whether expanders are regularly disinfected are main risk factors of postoperative infection in patients with SSTE embedding. Knowledge education on preventing infection among patients and main caregivers should be strengthened,postdischarge continuous nursing system should be established.