Several bacteria can cause Surgical Site Infections (SSIs), but the most common culprits are Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, Enterococcus species, and Escherichia coli.
In more detail:
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Staphylococcus aureus: This is frequently a leading cause of SSIs. It's a common bacterium found on the skin and in the nasal passages. It can cause a range of infections, from minor skin infections to more serious, invasive infections.
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Coagulase-negative staphylococci: These are also common skin bacteria and frequently contaminate surgical sites. While often less virulent than S. aureus, they can still cause significant infections, particularly in patients with implanted medical devices.
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Enterococcus species: These bacteria are commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. Enterococcus infections are often associated with urinary tract infections and can also cause SSIs, especially after surgeries involving the abdomen.
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Escherichia coli (E. coli): This bacterium is a common inhabitant of the human gut. It is frequently associated with SSIs following gastrointestinal or biliary tract surgeries.
It's crucial to remember that the specific bacteria causing an SSI can vary based on the type of surgery and the patient's individual characteristics. The patient's own endogenous flora is often the source of these infections.
