Al-Khayat et al identified risk factors for surgical site infection following excision of a pilonidal sinus. These can help identify patients who may benefit from more aggressive management. The authors are from Saad Specialist Hospital in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia.
Parameters:
(1) body mass index
(2) current smoker
Parameter
Finding
Points
body mass index (BMI)
< 30 kg per square meter
0
>= 30 kg per square meter (obese)
1
current smoker
no
0
yes
1
total number of risk factors =
= SUM(points for the 2 parameters)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 2
• The risk of surgical site infection is increased when risk factors are present.
Management of a patient with risk factors:
(1) If obese, then attempt preoperative weight loss.
(2) If a current smoker, then attempt smoking cessation before surgery.
(3) If risk is considered high, then use a simple laid-open procedure.
Limitations:
• Patients with chronic steroid therapy or immunosuppression did not seem to be included in the study.
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