Infection rate in closed fractures after internal fixations in a municipal hospital in Ghana

• Published in: Tropical doctor Vol. 36; no. 4; p. 233
• Main Authors: Saris, C G J, Bastianen, C A, Mvan Swieten, E C A, Wegdam, H H J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.10.2006
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Child; Female; Fracture Fixation, Internal - adverse effects; Fractures, Bone - surgery; Fractures, Closed - surgery; Ghana - epidemiology; Hospitals, Municipal; Humans; Incidence; Male; Middle Aged; Surgical Wound Infection - epidemiology; Surgical Wound Infection - etiology; Ghana
• DOI: 10.1258/004947506778604689
• ISSN: 0049-4755

This prospective study conducted in the Holy Family Municipal Hospital in Techiman, Ghana aimed to determine the incidence of wound infection following internal fixation of closed fractures in a municipal hospital in a developing country. Between May 2000 and February 2005, 194 patients were treated for closed fractures, implanting a total of 215 internal fixations. Patients were reviewed 10, 30 and 120 days after operation. In 141 (73%) patients, a follow-up of four months was achieved. Of all patients, six developed an infection, two deep and four superficial. The cumulative incidence of wound infection after internal fixation was 3.3%. This study demonstrates that the incidence of wound infection following internal fixation is comparable with hospitals in a temperate climate in industrialized countries. We therefore conclude that specific tropical risk factors play a minimal role in the development of wound infection.