Management of surgical site infection in oral cancer surgery

Abstract

Most oral cancer surgeries are performed with clean-contaminated wounds, but the incidence of Surgical Site Infection（SSI）is higher than in other areas. In particular, oral cancer surgery with free flap reconstruction has a higher incidence of SSI compared to resection alone. There are various risk factors for SSI, such as host factors, cancer factors, and surgical factors, and these factors combine to cause SSI. Elucidating and improving these issues may reduce the incidence of SSI. In addition, if prophylactic antimicrobials are not used properly, SSIs caused by resistant bacteria or nosocomial infections may occur, making treatment difficult. Recently, the ERAS（Enhanced Recovery After Surgery）protocol has been recommended. This protocol aims to minimize pain, promote patient recovery, and reduce perioperative complications, including SSIs, and hospital stay. In Japan, perioperative oral function management, which aims to reduce postoperative complications including SSIs by providing oral care before and after surgery for cancer patients, has been covered by insurance since 2012 and is gaining importance.