FREQUENCY OF SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING OPEN CHOLECYSTECTOMY

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common postoperative complication of open cholecystectomy, contributing to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. Identifying patient-related risk factors is crucial for improving surgical outcomes. Objective: To determine the frequency of SSI in patients undergoing open cholecystectomy and evaluate associated risk factors. Study Design: Descriptive study. Setting: Department of General Surgery, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan. Duration of Study: 19-03-2025 to 19-06-2025. Methods: A total of 138 patients undergoing elective open cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstones were included through non-probability consecutive sampling. All surgeries were performed using a standardized Kocher's incision with prophylactic antibiotics administered. Patients were monitored for 30 days postoperatively for SSI, defined by redness, warmth, localized swelling, pain, tenderness, or purulent discharge at the incision site. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27. Results: The mean age was 46.57 ± 9.60 years. Females constituted the majority (60.9%). The overall frequency of SSI was 14.5%. SSI occurrence was significantly higher in patients over 50 years of age (p = 0.006), in males (p = 0.0001), and in patients with a body weight greater than 75 kg (p = 0.005). Conclusion: The frequency of SSI after open cholecystectomy was 14.5%. Advanced age, male gender, and higher body weight were identified as significant risk factors for the condition. Preventive strategies targeting high-risk groups may reduce postoperative infections.