Surgical Site Infection Rate in Sutured Versus Stapled Wound Closure After Orthopedic Limb Surgeries: A Prospective Cohort Study

Objectives: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a demanding post-surgical complication. SSI has been linked to significant morbidity, mortality, and rising healthcare expenditure. Staples and sutures are the most utilized methods in orthopedic skin closure. The aim of this study was to compare the rate of SSI in sutured versus stapled wound closure after orthopedic limb surgeries. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted between September 2019 and March 2021. Patient demographics, method of wound closure, and potential risk factors associated with SSI were recorded. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors associated with SSI. Results: A total of 775 patients were included. Eighteen patients (2.3%) acquired an SSI. 3.5% of the staples group and 1.1% of the suture group contracted an SSI (p = 0.028, univariate analysis). Length of hospital stay (LOS) was significantly higher in the staples group (p < 0.001). Use of antibiotics (AOR 5.938; 95%CI 1.693–20.820), LOS (AOR: 1.047, 95% CI:1.013–1.083), and duration of antibiotic prophylaxis (AOR:1.076, 95% CI: 1.010–1.147) were independent risk factors of SSI. Conclusions: The use of staples was associated with longer hospital stays. Use of antibiotics, prolonged hospital stays, and extended antibiotic prophylaxis were independent risk factors for SSI. These findings suggest that the choice of closure method may impact hospital stay, which could influence SSI risk.