Which microorganism is most commonly responsible for surgical site infections (SSI)?

Staphylococcus aureus is the microorganism most commonly associated with surgical site infections (SSIs). This organism is a part of the normal flora of the skin and mucous membranes, which makes it well-positioned to infect surgical wounds. When the skin is breached during surgery, Staphylococcus aureus can enter the body and lead to infection. Additionally, this bacterium has the ability to form biofilms, which can enhance its pathogenicity and resilience against host defenses and antibiotics, further contributing to its role in SSIs.

Understanding the common pathogens involved in surgical site infections is crucial for surgeons and healthcare professionals, as it allows for better preoperative planning, choice of antibiotics for prophylaxis, and potential management strategies for infection control. In the case of the other microorganisms listed, while they can cause infections, they are less frequently implicated in SSIs compared to Staphylococcus aureus.