Surgical diphtheria is a rare, life-threatening condition characterized by a severe infection of the surgical site caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. The term "surgical" in this context refers to the fact that the infection occurs specifically at the site of a surgical wound or procedure. Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacterium, which primarily affects the respiratory system. However, in cases of surgical diphtheria, the infection manifests at the surgical wound site instead.
The infection is typically introduced to the surgical site through contaminated surgical instruments, improper sterilization techniques, or post-operative contact with infected individuals or objects. Surgical diphtheria is characterized by the formation of a grayish-white membranous layer over the wound, which can quickly spread and impair the healing process. If left untreated, the infection may enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs, leading to more serious complications.
Due to the potentially life-threatening nature of surgical diphtheria, immediate medical attention and intervention are necessary. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin, to target and eliminate the bacteria. Additionally, extensive wound care and proper cleaning techniques are crucial to prevent further spread of the infection.
Prevention is key in avoiding surgical diphtheria, and it includes strict adherence to sterile surgical protocols, proper sterilization of surgical instruments, and post-operative care to prevent contact with individuals or objects that may be contaminated.
