Surgical infections Flashcards
What does the development of an infection depend on?
Number/Virulence of bacteria
Competency of host defense
Amount of tissue damage
Dead space resulting from surgery
What are the ages that are most at risk for surgical infection?
> 10 years old
Why are dogs over 10 more at risk than others
Concurrent disease likely possible
Immune response is dulled
Why are dogs under 1 year more at risk than other dogs?
Under-developed immune system
What are some other risk factors that can occur at any age?
Protein-calorie malnutrition
Immunosuppressive drugs
Extended hospital stay
Drains/catheters present
What factors in a wound allow for the increase of bacterial growth?
Hematoma + Seroma
Foreign bodies
Excessive dead space
Large amounts of necrotic tissue
How long can cephalic catheters remain in?
48 to 72 hours
How long can jugular catheters remain in?
7 to 10 days
What is the longest you should keep a urinary catheter in?
2 to 3 day s
What aspects are necessary if you want to reduce the risk of infection with urinary catheters?
Closed collection system
Dont leave them in, do intermittent catherterization
What four aspects can be carried out to reduce infection risk?
Meticulous surgical technique
Copious wound lavage
Closure of dead space
Appropriate antibiotic resistance
Why can hypothermia increase infection risk?
Innate cells do not work as well in the cold
What happens to the tissues with rough handling that can increase the risk on infection?
Reduced oxygen tension
– and –
Phagocytes + Humoral immunity are diminished
What should be done before you start treating a superficial infection?
Culture - you can start treatment right after
What happens if implant is involved in the infection?
Must be removed
