The Effect of Intraoperative Use of Intact Fish Skin Grafts for High-Risk Patients With Class 3 and Class 4 Wounds Who Undergo Urgent/Emergent Abdominal Surgery

Abstract

Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a significant concern in high-risk patients undergoing abdominal surgeries with class 3 and class 4 wounds. This study examines the efficacy of Intact Fish Skin Grafts (IFSGs) in reducing SSIs. Conducted at two urban hospitals from July 2021 to November 2023, the study included 31 patients who underwent emergency abdominal procedures. IFSG was applied at the fascia level, and patients were monitored for 40 days postoperatively. The results demonstrated SSI rates of 5.9% in class 3 wounds and 7.1% in class 4 wounds, which is significantly lower than historical averages. The median hospital length of stay was reduced to 4 days for class 3 and 6 days for class 4 wounds. These findings suggest that IFSG presents a promising alternative to standard closure techniques, offering improved clinical outcomes and potential cost savings.