Title: Surgical site infections following hepatectomy and associated risk factors in liver surgery center in Vietnam
Abstract:
Background / Hypothesis: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a significant postoperative complication following hepatectomy, contributing to prolonged hospitalization, increased healthcare costs, and higher postoperative morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of SSI after hepatectomy and identify modifiable perioperative risk factors.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 372 adult patients who underwent hepatectomy at hepatobiliary center in Vietnam during 2024. Patients were categorized into laparoscopic hepatectomy and open hepatectomy groups. Demographics, comorbidities, operative data, drain use, and postoperative transfusion were collected. SSI was defined using Centers for Disease Control 2021 criteria. Statistical analyses included Chi-square testing and logistic regression.
Results: The SSI incidence was 3.5 percent (13 of 372). Laparoscopic hepatectomy showed a lower SSI rate compared with open hepatectomy (1.9 percent versus 5.7 percent). Independent predictors of SSI included open surgery, postoperative transfusion, and drain placement. Patients with SSI had longer hospitalization (18.9 vs. 7.6 days). Most SSIs were superficial, with fewer deep or organ-space infections.
Conclusions: Laparoscopic hepatectomy reduces SSI incidence and improves recovery compared with open hepatectomy. Drain placement and transfusion were significant modifiable risk factors. Enhanced perioperative strategies focusing on selective drain usage and transfusion stewardship are recommended.
Keywords: Hepatectomy, surgical Site Infection, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Postoperative Outcomes, Liver Surgery.
