Correlation between surgical site infection and time-dependent blood platelet count in immunocompromised patients after femoral neck fracture

Abstract

Objective The incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) after femoral neck fracture is significantly higher in immunocompromised patients. This study was performed to explore the temporal changes of blood-related parameters in immunocompromised patients after femoral neck fracture repair and to determine the correlation between the platelet (PLT) count and SSI. Methods This study involved 101 immunocompromised patients who underwent repair of a femoral neck fracture from April 2018 to August 2019. SSI was confirmed by postoperative observation of the incision and B-mode ultrasound imaging examination. Blood parameter measurements and dynamic observation were performed 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days postoperatively. Results The procalcitonin concentration, D-dimer concentration, and PLT count were strongly correlated with temporal changes. The PLT count changes crossed between patients with and without SSI 3 to 5 days after surgery, and the PLT count increased in patients with SSI 3 to 5 days after surgery. The PLT count had high specificity and sensitivity for predicting SSI with a cut-off value of 167.5 × 109/L. Conclusion The temporal changes of the PLT count in immunocompromised patients who have undergone femoral neck fracture repair can serve as an early warning of SSI.