surgical site infection (SSI)

A surgical site infection (SSI) occurs when bacteria or other microbes infect the area of the body where a surgical procedure was performed. This can happen shortly after surgery or even weeks later. SSIs can cause redness, swelling, pain, warmth, and sometimes pus at the surgical site. They may also lead to fever or other complications if not treated. Proper wound care, hygiene, and sometimes antibiotics help prevent and treat SSIs. Although they are a common surgical risk, healthcare providers take precautions to minimize the chances of infection and ensure healing.