Assessment of Surgical Site Infection Rates Following Elective Abdominal Surgeries at a Tertiary Hospital in Lagos State

Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a significant source of postoperative morbidity in Nigerian hospitals, particularly in resource-limited settings where infection control infrastructure is inconsistent. This study assesses the incidence and predisposing factors of SSIs following elective abdominal surgeries at a tertiary referral hospital in Lagos State, South West Nigeria. A retrospective review of surgical records from 2020 to 2024 was conducted, examining 350 patients who underwent elective open abdominal procedures. Data collected included patient demographics, preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis, duration of surgery, wound classification, and postoperative wound outcomes. SSI diagnosis followed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Descriptive statistics were applied, and chi-square tests were used to identify significant associations. Preliminary findings suggest an SSI rate of approximately 18%, with prolonged operative time and inadequate antibiotic prophylaxis as the most significant contributing factors. Poor compliance with surgical hand hygiene protocols was also noted among theatre staff. The study highlights institutional gaps in SSI surveillance and recommends structured infection control committees, routine wound audit programs, and consistent antibiotic stewardship. These findings aim to inform local hospital policy to reduce preventable postoperative complications and improve patient outcomes within the South West geopolitical zone. Keywords: surgical site infection, abdominal surgery, postoperative complication, antibiotic prophylaxis, Lagos