Abstract:

Background: Caesarean section is the one of the most commonly performed surgical procedure in obstetrical and gynecological department. Surgical site infection after a caesarean section increases maternal morbidity prolongs hospital stay and medical costs.

Objective: The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence and outcome of surgical site infection among caesarean section cases.

Method: A prospective descriptive study was conducted at Bugando Medical Centre, Department of obstetrics and gynecology from February 2020 to April 2020. A total of 162 women who underwent surgical procedure for delivery during the study period were included in the study. Data was collected from the patient using questionnaires and examination of the wound. Data were analysed by STATA version 13 as per study objectives.

Results: Total of 162 cases were studies. The mean age was 26.8 ± 5.8 years. Majority of women were married (56.2%), and 22.2% were single. Most weighing between 50 to 70 (58.6%). The prevalence of surgical site infection was 14 (8.6%). Surgical site infections were found to be common in women with multiple vaginal examination (≥4times), premature rupture of membrane more than 12 hours and those deliveries which were emergency. The outcome of SSI the study showed (96.3%) of the patients recovered, (1.9%) complicated to endometritis, (1.2%) has sepsis (0.6%0 hysterectomy was done and there was no death.

Conclusion: Surgical site infection following caesarean section is common. SSI was found to be 8.6% which was contributed by modifiable factors like multiple vaginal examinations, rupture of membranes for more than 12 hours. Basing on the prevalence and outcome as observed in the study measures for the prevention of infection should be observed. Modifiable factors for SSI to be modified. Development and strict implementation of protocol by all the health care professionals could be effective to minimize and prevent the infection after caesarean Section.