Aust Dent J. 2025 Nov 3. doi: 10.1111/adj.70014. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, characteristics, and management of post-operative infections (POI) following dentoalveolar surgery in patients admitted to a tertiary oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) unit in South Australia over a five-year period.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional audit was conducted at a tertiary hospital OMS Unit from January 2019 to December 2023. A post-operative infection was defined as an infection occurring at the surgical site after an initial surgical procedure. Data were collected from 107 patients admitted with POI following surgery. Data on demographics, clinical management, antibiotic use, and microbiological findings were analyzed using descriptive and quantitative statistical methods.
RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 43.5 years, with a slight female predominance (57.9%). Mandibular molars were the most common source of infection (88.8%), with the submandibular space being the most frequently involved (42.1%). Microbiological analysis revealed a 35% antibiotic resistance rate, with clindamycin resistance being particularly high (22.5%). Patients with resistant infections had significantly longer hospital stays (mean 8.9 vs. 4.9 days, t-test, p = 0.012).
CONCLUSIONS: POI following dentoalveolar surgery represents a significant clinical and economic burden, particularly in cases involving antibiotic-resistant organisms. The findings underscore the need for improved antibiotic stewardship, enhanced preventive strategies and definitive early management to optimize patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
PMID:41178649 | DOI:10.1111/adj.70014
