200-patient spinal surgery study reveals most surgical site infections originate from patients' pre-existing skin microbiome.

New research published in Science Translational Medicine suggests that most surgical site infections are caused by previously harmless bacteria already present on patients' bodies before entering the hospital. The study, involving 200 spinal surgery patients, found that these infections stem from the skin microbiome rather than contamination from hospital equipment. Post-surgery infections contribute significantly to hospital-acquired infection costs, making this finding crucial for improving patient outcomes.

April 10, 2024
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