Postpartum infection is a major cause of maternal morbidity and prolonged hospitalization, and places a large burden on the healthcare system with an additional cost of $3,700 (Olsen et al., 2010). Surgical site infection (SSI) is one of the most common post-operative complications following cesarean section, with an incidence of 3-15% worldwide (Zuarez-Eaaston et al., 2017). Wound dressings that are applied after closure of a surgical incision may help healing by providing physical support, protection from external contaminants, and by absorbing exudate (Dumville et al., 2016). A new FDA-approved microbicidial liquid adhesive, Steri3X, has been shown to reduce the incidence of pin-tract infection by 100% in a randomized-controlled trial following external fixation in patients undergoing reconstructive surgery for deformity correction (Pema, 2020). Steri3X is reported to be effective against S. aureus (both MSSA and MRSA), Candida albicans, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and Candida auris, which are common organisms involved in dermatological infections. The most common organisms responsible for cesarean section SSI include enteric gram negative bacilli, enterococci, and group B streptococcus (Gur et al., 2015). The advantage of this polymer following C-sections is unknown, and a larger study is needed to provide a more robust analysis. This study aims to determine the effect of Steri3X on the incidence of cesarean section SSI at Regional One Hospital.
Postpartum infection if a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality and surgical site infections are some of the common complications following cesarean section. This study aims to determine the effect of Steri3X on the incidence of cesarean section SSI at Regional One Hospital.