Abstract
This prospective study conducted in the Holy Family Municipal Hospital in Techiman, Ghana aimed to determine the incidence of wound infection following internal fixation of closed fractures in a municipal hospital in a developing country. Between May 2000 and February 2005, 194 patients were treated for closed fractures, implanting a total of 215 internal fixations. Patients were reviewed 10, 30 and 120 days after operation. In 141 (73%) patients, a follow-up of four months was achieved. Of all patients, six developed an infection, two deep and four superficial. The cumulative incidence of wound infection after internal fixation was 3.3%.
This study demonstrates that the incidence of wound infection following internal fixation is comparable with hospitals in a temperate climate in industrialized countries. We therefore conclude that specific tropical risk factors play a minimal role in the development of wound infection.