The frequency of port-site infection in laparoscopic cholecystectomies

Abstract

Background: Introduction of laparoscopic surgery was a revolution in the field of surgery. Despite many benefits, the technique is associated with certain complications including port site infection. Port site infection, although less common is annoying both for the surgeon and the patient, and cripple the benefits of minimally invasive surgery. Port site infection not only increases the economic burden, pain and hospital stay of patient but also harm the reputation of the attending surgeon and hospital. Unfortunately, there is a reflection that antibiotics can solve the situation leading to misuse of antibiotics and evolution of multi drug resistant strains of microorganisms. Methods: This observational study carried by the Department of General Surgery at Nawaz Sharif Social Security teaching hospital Lahore over a period of 4 years (Jan 2012 to Jan 2016). The study was carried out in 200 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Age, gender, operation duration and operative findings were evaluated regarding port site infections. Aim: To study the frequency of port-site infection (PSI) and their magnitude, planning adequate management and to recommend the measures to prevent them in future. Results: In the current study, 200 patients including 166 females (83%) and 34 males (17%) were operated. A total of 12 Patients (6%) had port site infection. Infection was seen in 4 male patients (33.33%) and 8 female patients (66.66%). Age range was 16-71 years. Most common port involved was epigastric, which developed infection in 11 patients (91.66%), followed by umbilical port which got infected in 1patient (8.33%). Gall bladder was extracted through epigastric port site in 186 patients (93%) and through umbilical port site in 14 patients (7%).All cases were superficial wound infections Conclusion: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with a low risk of Port Site Infection, which in most cases is only superficial and responds to local measures. Infection is most commonly seen at port site through which gall bladder was extracted.