Publication:

Incidence and determinants of surgical site infection following cesarean section: a one-year retrospective cohort study from a tertiary care centre in North India

Background Surgical site infection (SSI) remains a significant postoperative complication following lower segment cesarean section (LSCS) and contributes to maternal morbidity and prolonged hospitalization.

Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted at ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, from 1 February 2025 to 31 January 2026. All women undergoing LSCS during the study period (n=544) were included. SSI was defined according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test and independent t test. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results Among 544 women undergoing LSCS, 44 developed SSI, resulting in an incidence of 8.08%. Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²), emergency CS, and repeat CS were significantly associated with SSI (p<0.05). Patients with SSI had significantly longer postoperative hospital stay than those without SSI (8.2±2.3 vs 4.1±1.2 days; p<0.001).

Conclusions The incidence of SSI was 8.08%. Maternal obesity, emergency surgery, and repeat CS were significant determinants. Strengthening perioperative infection-prevention protocols is essential to reduce postoperative morbidity.