Does Revascularization Prior to Foot and Ankle Surgery Reduce the Incidence of Surgical Site Infection (SSI)?

RECOMMENDATION: Several studies support the effect of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) on wound healing and surgical site infection (SSI). Despite this, there have been no specific studies proving the beneficial effect of revascularization on SSI prior to operative intervention in the setting of traumatic or elective foot and ankle surgery. The majority of studies on revascularization are in the setting of diabetic foot infection or established ischemia. We recommend that in the presence of an inadequate vascularization in the foot and ankle, vascular optimization should be undertaken prior to elective surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Limited.

DELEGATE VOTE: Agree: 100%, Disagree: 0%, Abstain: 0% (Unanimous, Strongest Consensus).