Exploring the Impact of Antiseptics on Skin Microbiota in Surgical Settings

Abstract

Antiseptics are commonly used in surgical settings to reduce the risk of infections. However, there is growing concern about the potential impact of antiseptics on the skin microbiota, which plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and preventing infections. This study aims to explore the effects of antiseptics on the skin microbiota in surgical settings. Swabs were taken from 340 different sites of skin divided into four groups including; group 1 included160 swabs, group 2 included 50 swabs, group 3 included 100 swabs, group 4 included 30 swabs, taken from patients’ skin before surgery at the site of cesarean incision from several positions before and after sterilization with 10% povidone-iodine and with 10% povidone-iodine mixed with 70% ethanol, and from infected surgical sites. The bacterial isolates were identified by phenotypic and biochemical tests, as well as VITEK-2 assay. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the prevalent bacteria isolated from skin sample sources in group 1, 2, and 3 with a total rate 81% followed by Staphylococcus aureus which was dominant in group 4 that included surgical site infection swabs. In addition, other bacteria species were isolated from different skin sites such as Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Kocuria kristinae, Enterobacter cloacae, Aerococcus viridans, Pantoea, and Burkholderia cepacian. Also, the study included the samples of skin microbiota will be collected from surgical staff and patients before and after exposure to antiseptics. Next-generation sequencing techniques will be employed to analyze changes in the composition and diversity of the skin microbiota. The findings of this study were provided valuable insights into the impact of antiseptics on the skin microbiota in surgical settings. This information can help healthcare professionals make informed decisions about the use of antiseptics and develop strategies to preserve the skin microbiota while effectively preventing infections during surgical procedures.