MRSA infection in lower extremity wounds.
Publication/Presentation Date
3-1-2008
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most frequently isolated bacteria in wound cultures. MRSA has been linked to lengthened wound healing times, an increase in adverse postoperative outcomes, and mortality. This study investigated the incidence of MRSA in lower extremity wounds and examined outcomes associated with MRSA-infected wounds versus non-MRSA-infected wounds. A retrospective study was conducted. Patients with MRSA-infected wounds were compared with those with uninfected wounds in a 1:2 ratio. Demographics, infection, and stay information were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS 15.0. 51 patients were included (17 with MRSA and 34 without MRSA). Patients with MRSA had increased lengths of stay and a higher incidence of adverse postoperative outcomes compared with non-MRSA patients. An MRSA infection adversely affects a patient's hospital course. Preoperative screening for MRSA and postoperative surveillance should be considered to prevent and eliminate the spread of this virulent bacterium.
Volume
7
Issue
1
First Page
28
Last Page
31
ISSN
1534-7346
Published In/Presented At
Edris, B., & Reed, J. F., 3rd (2008). MRSA infection in lower extremity wounds. The international journal of lower extremity wounds, 7(1), 28–31. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534734608314090
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
18372266
Department(s)
Department of Medicine
Document Type
Article