Surgery may put you at an increased risk for infection. The bigger your incision and the longer your surgery, the more at risk for an infection you may be. You may also be at a higher risk for infection if you have a weakened immune system or diabetes, or are obese.

Tests

Wound Culture Tests
To determine what type of infection you have, your physician will take a sample of infected tissue to study in a lab. Physicians study these tissues to look for bacteria, fungi, or viruses.

Blood Tests
Your physician can also examine blood samples for signs of infection. By determine the exact cause of your infection, your physician can deliver more effective care.

Treatments

Prophylactic Medicines
Your doctor may give you antibiotics immediately after surgery to help stop an infection before it starts. Steroids may also be used to prevent infections.

Sterile Processing Procedures
Your surgery team will also try to prevent infection by using hospital sterile processing procedures. These procedures help ensure that operating rooms, operating tools, physicians, nurses, and others involved in your surgery are as clean as possible.

Wound Care
If you have an infected wound or incision, you may need additional surgical care to drain pus or help the wound heal.

Supportive Care
If you have a serious infection, you may need to stay in the hospital for care. Physicians can help support you as you heal through intravenous (IV) fluids, prescription medicines to lower fever, and respiratory support.

Why Choose UHealth?

Advanced, specialized care to fight infections. From the latest diagnostic techniques to the newest evidence-based medicines, our infectious disease physicians offer specialized care for many infectious diseases including HIV, cytomegalovirus, fungal infections, mycobacterial infections, and more. We create personalized treatment plans based on the cause of your infection and your health to prevent and fight bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. You’ll have access to expert physicians, more treatment options, and supportive care that focuses on your needs.