PREVENTION OF SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS IN ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical site infections are common postoperative complications, associated with invasive devices and the complexity of procedures, resulting in increased morbidity, length of hospital stay, and higher healthcare costs. Chlorhexidine stands out as the antiseptic of choice due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and prolonged residual effect. Objective: To analyse the effectiveness of preoperative hygiene with chlorhexidine in reducing the incidence of infections in individuals undergoing orthopedic surgery. Methodology: The investigation followed the PI[C]O methodology. The search was conducted in the MEDLINE Ultimate and CINAHL Ultimate databases via EBSCOHost, using natural and MeSH descriptors combined with Boolean operators. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and the process was represented in a PRISMA diagram. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute levels of evidence. Results: Six studies were included. All highlight the importance of preoperative hygiene in preventing infections, although there are divergences regarding the most effective antiseptic. Chlorhexidine, particularly in its alcoholic formulation, showed good results, but povidone–iodine is still considered a valid alternative. Conclusion: It is concluded that chlorhexidine contributes to the reduction of infections in orthopedic surgery and is therefore recommended. However, further studies are needed to consolidate its effectiveness and standardize protocols.