Surgical Implant Infection: The Prevention Imperative

Aerobiotix Exhibitor Satellite Symposium
Friday, June 14, 2019
6:00 AM – 7:45 AM
Philadelphia Convention Center Room 204-C

EARN CE CREDIT: 1.8 CE certificate provided.

Speaker: Maureen Spencer, MEd, BSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC – Infection Prevention Consultant
Moderator: Sue Barnes, RN, BSN, CIC, FAPIC – Infection Prevention Consultant

Approximately 1.2 million arthroplasties are performed annually in the U.S., and that number is expected to increase to 3.8 million by the year 2030. But beyond orthopedic procedures, virtually all surgical disciplines are now engaged in implanting devices. This includes cardiac, general, spinal, and OB/GYN surgery. Infections associated with these implants are expensive in terms of patient suffering and financial impact on hospitals. The general estimate for the cost of a prosthetic joint infection (PJI) in the U.S. is approximately $100,000, but legal settlements have been known to drive costs far higher. And though the infection rate for PJI is low from 2.0-2.4%, infections associated with other types of implants are higher than average. For instance, implanted mesh infection following incisional hernia repair has been reported on average between 6-10%.

Over the last two decades a growing number of studies have shown evidence that airborne microbial populations play a significant role in the etiology of SSI and that procedures involving an implant are at significant risk after intraoperative contamination from even a minimal microbial inoculum.

This session will explore the correlation between the environment of the OR and infections involving implantable devices, with emphasis on the contribution of contaminated air, pathways for reduction of risk and new evidence on emerging technology shown to reduce aerosolized bioburden and SSI.