Surgical Site Infection (SSI)

What is an SSI?

A surgery site infection, or SSI, is an infection that occurs at a patient’s operative site following surgery.

How does this happen?

Your skin is a natural barrier against external, foreign contaminants. When a breech in this defense occurs, sometimes pathogens may gain access to the area and cause a postoperative infection.

What are we doing to prevent SSIs?

• We use special cleansers that have been clinically proven to reduce infections before making an incision.
• We give patients antibiotics immediately before surgery.
• We avoid the use of razors to remove hair.
• We maintain a sterile environment in the operating rooms, which includes properly sterilizing the surgical tools and machines that will be used during the surgery.
• We involve the parent/guardian in the risk assessment.
• We wear professionally laundered surgical attire.
• We thoroughly clean the operative suite after every patient.