RISK FACTORS AND MICROBIAL PROFILE OF POSTOPERATIVE INFECTIONS IN ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS

Background and Aim: To study Surgical Site Infection in orthopedic implant patients. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted throughout a twelve-month duration in the Microbiology department of Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University Medical College and Hospital in Sangli, following endorsement from the Ethical Committee. Results: The study reported a 3.3% SSI rate in orthopedic implant surgeries, with UHMWPE implants most affected. Staphylococcus aureus, including 60% MRSA, was the leading pathogen. No signicant risk factor associations were found, highlighting the need for strict aseptic protocols and culture-based antibiotic use.