FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SURGICAL SITE INFECTION IN ABDOMINAL SURGERIES: PREVENTIVE AND THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a major complication associated with abdominal surgeries, linked to increased morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospital stays, the need for reinterventions, and higher healthcare costs. Its occurrence results from the interplay of factors related to the patient, the surgical procedure, and the hospital environment. Given its impact on the quality of care and patient safety, it is essential to identify predisposing factors and the most effective strategies for prevention and therapeutic management. Objective: To analyze scientific evidence regarding the main factors associated with SSI in abdominal surgeries, as well as the preventive and therapeutic strategies employed to reduce its incidence and adverse outcomes. Methods: This is a narrative literature review conducted via searches in the PubMed, SciELO, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Cochrane Library databases. Articles published between 2019 and 2026 in Portuguese and English were selected, along with national and international guidelines regarding SSI prevention and treatment. The included studies underwent qualitative and descriptive analysis. Results: Evidence demonstrated that advanced age, obesity, diabetes mellitus, malnutrition, smoking, immunosuppression, prolonged operative time, surgical wound contamination, and inadequate antibiotic prophylaxis are the primary risk factors for SSI in abdominal surgeries. The most effective preventive strategies include preoperative clinical optimization, strict glycemic control, proper skin preparation, correct administration of antibiotic prophylaxis, maintenance of normothermia, aseptic surgical technique, and implementation of the World Health Organization's Surgical Safety Checklist. Key aspects of treatment include early diagnosis, drainage when indicated, surgical debridement, and targeted antibiotic therapy based on microbiological findings. The integrated approach of the multidisciplinary team proved crucial in reducing complications and infection recurrence. Conclusion: Preventing surgical site infections in abdominal surgeries depends on the systematic implementation of evidence-based care protocols and the early identification of risk factors. Adopting integrated preventive and therapeutic measures contributes to reducing morbidity and mortality, optimizing surgical outcomes, and enhancing patient safety.