Prevention of Surgical Site Contamination With Cutibacterium acnes During Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized
By
Isabell Moter
Sören Schubert
Ana Goncalves
Shekhar Saha
Kurosh Sarbandi
Judith Kikhney
Annette Moter
Edgar Eszlari
Christian Hagl
Walter Eichinger
July 8, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Mitigating Surgical Site Infections Caused by Cutibacterium acnes in Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Study
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Cutibacterium acnes infection in cardiac surgery Key Mechanisms Cutibacterium acnes can form biofilms and is present in hair follicles, leading to potential contamination during surgery. Target Population Male patients aged 18 years or older undergoing first-time cardiac surgery via median sternotomy. Care Setting University hospital and university-affiliated teaching hospital
Key Highlights
C acnes is now recognized as a relevant pathogen in prosthetic valve endocarditis. The prevalence of C acnes in PVE cases is estimated at 3.8% to 8.0%. Standard disinfection protocols may not effectively eliminate C acnes from hair follicles. The study assessed intraoperative hygiene measures to reduce contamination. Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to intervention or control groups. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Consider C acnes in cases of prosthetic valve endocarditis. Management
Implement targeted intraoperative hygiene measures to reduce contamination. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor for signs of infection post-surgery, particularly in high-risk patients. Risks
Inadequate disinfection may lead to increased risk of C acnes infection. Patient & Prescribing Data
Male patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Standard perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis includes 1.5 g intravenous cefuroxime.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize iodine-impregnated surgical drapes during cardiac surgery. Shorten chest hair prior to surgery to minimize contamination risk. Ensure thorough preoperative skin disinfection with appropriate antiseptics. Related Resources & Content
