78 Hand Injury and K – Wire Related Infection Rates in the Plastic Surgery Department – Closed Cycle Audit

Abstract Aim To identify the rate of K-wire infection in hand injuries and ascertain compliance with NICE guidelines on antibiotic prophylaxis and surgical skin preparation. Method Retrospective audit/service evaluation – EPR Operations first cycle (August – December 2019), and the second cycle (August – November 2020). Included all cases (adult and paediatric) of hand injuries managed with K – wire fixation – Plastic Surgery Trauma theatre lists. Results After the first cycle recommendations, the infection rates fell from 15 % to 11 %. Conclusions Infection rates were lower in the group of patients who had antibiotics on induction and on discharge.