What is the most common site for surgical site infections (SSI)?

The most common site for surgical site infections (SSI) is the abdominal cavity. This is primarily due to the high incidence of surgical procedures involving this area, such as appendectomies, cholecystectomies, and bowel surgeries. Many of these surgeries involve manipulation of the intestines or other internal organs, which can introduce bacteria into the surgical field.

Additionally, the abdominal cavity often has a higher density of bacteria compared to other sites, and the presence of blood and other fluids can promote bacterial growth after surgery. The complex anatomy and potential for contamination from the gastrointestinal tract further increase the risk of infections.

While other sites such as the skin, chest cavity, and lower extremities can certainly be locations for SSIs, they do not have the same prevalence as the abdominal cavity for the types of surgeries performed and the common bacterial flora involved. Understanding the factors affecting abdominal surgeries helps highlight why this area is particularly susceptible to SSIs.