Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Site Infection After Titanium Plate Removal Following Orthognathic Surgery

<b>Background/Objectives:</b> This study aimed to investigate associations between surgical site infection (SSI) and plate removal following orthognathic surgery. <b>Methods:</b> The study sample consisted of 191 patients (126 females, 65 males). Plate removal was performed in 174 patients with a mean age of 26.4 ± 9.7 years. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for risk factors for SSI after plate removal. <b>Results:</b> Forty-three patients developed SSI after plate removal. The only risk factor independently associated with SSI after plate removal was a history of SSI after orthognathic surgery (OR 2.476, 95% CI 1.040-5.892). <b>Conclusions:</b> Patients who experience SSI after orthognathic surgery are at higher risk of SSI after plate removal, so protocols for perioperative management should be carefully considered.