Infection Prevention in Chicago
With convenient locations in Palos Hills and Mokena, IL
When it comes to orthopedic surgery, nothing is more important than your safety. Dr. Sarkis Bedikian, an elite fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, takes infection control seriously.
Infection prevention is a cornerstone of his practice in Palos Hills and Mokena, IL, ensuring patients achieve the best outcomes with minimized risks.
Understanding Infection Prevention for Orthopedic Surgery
In orthopedic surgery, infection prevention refers to the strategies and measures to protect patients from surgical site infections (SSIs).
Infection prevention protocols are integral to complication-free surgeries, smooth recoveries, and long-term wellness.
Why is Infection Prevention So Important?
Surgical site infections can cause serious complications and may derail recovery. A surgical site infection can cause pain, swelling, and other problems in the immediate area. It may spread from an area like the hip or knee into nearby muscles and other tissues.
Ultimately, a surgical site infection could cause implant failure or require revision surgery. In the most serious cases, an untreated surgical site infection could become life-threatening.
Following infection prevention protocols helps avoid the problem, tackling the risk proactively rather than treating it after it has already taken hold in the body.
Common Causes of Infections in Orthopedic Surgeries
Infections can stem from many sources. The risk of surgical site infections may be higher in the following groups.
- Smokers
- Patients with chronic conditions like diabetes
- Obese patients
- Patients who have a weak immune system
- Patients who experience malnutrition
- Geriatric patients
- Patients with conditions that affect healing
Surgical factors can come into play as well. Extended time in surgery, extensive tissue manipulation, and open surgery (with larger incisions) are all significant surgical risk factors.
Standard Protocols for Infection Prevention
Dr. Bedikian follows extensive infection prevention protocols to ensure your safety. Those typically include:
Pre-Operative Measures
Thorough preparation before surgery minimizes infection risks:
- Skin Preparation: Prescribed antiseptic washes and good hygiene ahead of surgery.
- Medical Screenings: Identifying pre-existing infections or health risks, such as uncontrolled diabetes.
- Prophylactic Antibiotics: Dr. Bedikian prescribes appropriate antibiotics before and after surgery to prevent bacterial growth. He carefully selects these antibiotics and times them to minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.
- Patient Guidelines: Dr. Bedikian provides detailed lifestyle, diet, and medical protocols to follow before surgery.
Operative Measures
Before and during surgery, Dr. Bedikian takes strict measures to maintain a sterile environment. He uses advanced sterilization techniques for surgical instruments, implants, and everything else that comes in contact with the patient.
Today, even implants are geared for infection prevention. For example, antimicrobial-coated implants can release small amounts of certain antibiotics to reduce bacterial growth.
Dr. Bedikian also uses advanced surgical techniques whenever possible. For example, using minimally invasive surgery methods, with smaller incisions and less tissue trauma, over open surgery. This can significantly reduce the risk of infections while also promoting a smoother and faster recovery.
Post-Operative Measures
After surgery, careful monitoring and wound care further prevent infections:
- Wound Care: Dr. Bedikian provides detailed guidelines on dressing changes and how to keep surgical sites clean.
- Advanced Materials: Specialized dressings reduce exposure to contaminants and promote healing.
- Follow-Ups: Regular check-ins after surgery help monitor for signs of infection, like swelling, pain, and redness, allowing immediate treatment.
Modern Practice with Modern Solutions
Our state-of-the-art clinic is home to advanced tools and techniques such as robotic-assisted surgery and arthroscopy for joint procedures.
Contact Us in Palos Hills and Mokena, IL
If you’re planning orthopedic surgery and safety is your top priority, call Dr. Sarkis Bedikian’s offices in Palos Hills or Mokena, IL, today. With a focus on infection prevention and exceptional patient care, we prioritize your health and recovery.
