Postoperative Infection Rates in Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) for Fractures: A Multicentre Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Background: Postoperative infections, particularly surgical site infections (SSIs), are common complications following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgeries. Objectives: To determine postoperative infection rates in ORIF for fractures, identify risk factors, evaluate infection onset time, and compare infection rates across study centers. Materials and Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional observational study was conducted from January 2021 to December 2024 at Dashmina Upazila Health Complex, Patuakhali. Fifty patients undergoing ORIF for fractures were included. Baseline data, including demographics, comorbidities, and surgical details, were collected. Postoperative wound assessments were done at 7, 30, and 90 days to monitor surgical site infections, following CDC guidelines. Result: Out of 50 patients, 15 (30%) developed surgical site infections (SSIs). The distribution of fractures showed 20 femoral fractures (7 infected, 13 non-infected), 18 tibial fractures (5 infected), and 12 "other" fractures (3 infected). Prolonged surgeries (>2 hours) were associated with infections in 10 patients (66.7%), while 13 patients received preoperative antibiotics, with 11 (86.7%) developing infections. Diabetes mellitus (OR=3.2, p=0.04) and prolonged surgery (OR=4.5, p=0.01) were significant risk factors. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the incidence of postoperative infections following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for fractures, emphasizing the significant risk factors contributing to surgical site infections (SSIs).