The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery in Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance
摘要
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health issue, and surgical interventions are involved in the spread of resistant organisms. Surgical site infection (SSI) is a major problem in postoperative care that results in prolonged hospital stay and increased administration of antibiotics. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is however associated with lesser occurrence of SSI compared to open surgery due to reduced exposure of tissues and smaller incisions which lower pathogen entry. Reduced hospital stay is an important factor in limiting the risk of acquiring resistant pathogens. By reducing hospital stay, MIS indirectly contributes to combating AMR by preventing exposure to hospital-acquired infections that would require antibiotic treatment. It also allows for on-demand administration of antibiotics rather than routine use, a strategy that aligns with global antibiotic stewardship goals. The decreased antibiotic use directly prevents AMR by limiting the selection pressure that fosters resistance. MIS preserves patients’ microbiome natural balance and causes a resultant competitive prevention of growth of pathologic microbiota. It is associated with a limited postoperative rise in inflammatory markers, indicating that it reduces the possibility of postoperative systemic inflammation. This helps to preserve immune function and reduce the need for prophylactic antibiotic therapy. Although MIS is not feasible for all surgical cases, its expanded adoption where applicable could be instrumental in the fight against AMR. Longitudinal studies are needed to examine and establish the role of MIS in reducing antibiotic needs and addressing AMR. Using a narrative review methodology, this study aims to present the roles of MIS in mitigating AMR.