Risk Factors for Postoperative Deep Infection After Malignant Bone Tumor Surgery of the Extremities

Abstract

Background/aim Previous studies have identified pelvic tumors as a risk factor for surgical site infections (SSI). However, risk factors for extremity tumors are still unclear. This study investigated risk factors for postoperative deep infection in malignant bone tumors of the extremities. Patients and methods Data from 238 patients with 256 malignant bone tumor surgeries were reviewed. Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression determined risk factors for deep infection. Results Deep infection was found in 23 of 256 cases (9.0%). Tibial tumor (OR=6.04; 95%CI=2.14-17.05; p<0.001) and operative time ≥5 hours (OR=3.25; 95%CI=1.15-9.23; p=0.027) were independent risk factors for deep infection. Conclusion Tibial tumor and operative time ≥5 hours are independent risk factors for deep infection after surgery of malignant bone tumor of extremities. Strategies to minimize risk of infection in the tibia and decreasing operative time should be implemented, along with other measures to decrease SSI.