Reprocessing of Pedicle Screws and Exposure in Sterile-Field Leads to Infection in Spinal Surgery
By Admin | July 03, 2019
Bacterial infections following spinal fusion occur at a rate of approximately 12.7%.1 These infections most commonly involve Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus, and are linked to reprocessing (rewashing and resterilizing) pedicle screws and exposure inside “sterile-field” in spinal surgery.2-4 Reprocessed screws have been found to harbor corrosion, biofilm, endotoxins, fatty tissue, and soap residue mixed with fat, whereas exposed pedicle screws in “sterile-field” become contaminated.3-5
New research suggests that avoiding reprocessing altogether and shielding pedicle screws intraoperatively with an impermeable guard can prevent or reduce the degree of contamination and resulting surgical site infections (SSIs).4 SpineUniverse spoke with coauthors of this study—Aakash Agarwal, PhD, Neel Anand, MD, and Jeffrey C. Wang, MD—to determine the magnitude of the issue, and how to prevent surgical site contamination linked to pedicle screws in spine surgery.
For more information please read, Reprocessing of Pedicle Screws and Exposure in Sterile-Field Leads to Infection in Spinal Surgery, by Ortho Spine News.
