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Postoperative infections are infections that occur after a surgical procedure. They can occur within the first few days after surgery or even weeks later. Postoperative infections can occur at the surgical site or in other areas of the body, and they can be caused by a variety of organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
Common risk factors for postoperative infections include a weakened immune system, diabetes, obesity, prolonged surgical time, and the presence of foreign objects like surgical implants.
Symptoms of postoperative infections can include fever, redness, swelling, warmth or drainage from the surgical site, pain, and general malaise or fatigue. Treatment for postoperative infections depends on the type and severity of the infection. Mild infections can often be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medication, while more severe infections may require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, or even surgical intervention to remove infected tissue or implants.
Preventing postoperative infections is an important part of surgical care. Surgeons and other medical staff take steps to reduce the risk of infection, such as maintaining a sterile environment, washing their hands frequently, and prescribing prophylactic antibiotics. Patients can also take steps to reduce their risk of infection, such as following all pre- and post-operative instructions, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and informing their medical team of any pre-existing medical conditions.