Factors contributing to perioperative infections in Mbandaka (Democratic Republic of the Congo): a cross-sectional analytical study at Wangata General Referral Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Perioperative infections (POIs) are common in sub-Saharan Africa, but the factors contributing to them are poorly documented in Mbandaka (DRC).

Objective: To identify factors associated with POIs at Wangata General Referral Hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study (June 2025 – February 2026) involving 70 patients who underwent surgery. Data collected via questionnaire, observation and audit. Univariate, bivariate (χ²) and multivariate (logistic regression) analyses.

Results: The prevalence of postoperative infections was 35.7%. In the multivariate analysis, seven independent factors were associated: age ≥61 years (ORa=4.2), malnutrition (ORa=3.5), HIV (ORa=5.1), surgical emergency (ORa=3.8), duration >120 min (ORa=3.0), blade shaving (ORa=2.9) and infrequent hand hygiene (ORa=4.0).

Conclusion: Surgical site infections in Mbandaka are multifactorial, dominated by modifiable factors (practices, management of comorbidities). Interventions targeting hand hygiene, skin preparation and antibiotic prophylaxis are a priority.

Keywords: Perioperative infections – risk factors – surgery – DRC – Mbandaka – hospital hygiene

Received Date: February 22, 2026

Accepted Date: March 14, 2026

Published Date: April 02, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/672