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Papers by France Borgey

Background Older adults living in nursing homes (NH) paid a heavy price to the COVID-19 pandemic,... more Background Older adults living in nursing homes (NH) paid a heavy price to the COVID-19 pandemic, despite early and often drastic prevention measures. Aims To study the characteristics and the impact of the pandemic on NH residents and professionals over 2 years. Methods Cross sectional study of COVID-19 clusters among residents and/or professionals in NH, from March 2020 to February 2022, in Normandy, France. We used data from the French mandatory reporting system, and cross-correlation analysis. Results The weekly proportion of NH with clusters was strongly correlated with population incidence (r > 0.70). Attack rates among residents and professionals were significantly lower in period 2 (vaccination rate in residents ≥50%) compared with periods 1 (waves 1 and 2) and 3 (Omicron variant ≥50%). Among residents, mortality and case fatality rates decreased drastically during periods 2 and 3. Conclusions Our study provides figures on the evolution of the pandemic in NH.

Infection Prevention in Practice, 2021

Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowled... more Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowledge of SARS-COV-2 characteristics was limited, and personal protective equipment (PPE) was lacking. Thus, health care workers (HCWs) were exposed to nosocomial transmission. Methods A multicenter regional descriptive study of fifty-two heath care facilities covering 30,533 HCWs in western Normandy, France, from March 3 to March 27, 2020, before the incidence threshold of 10/100,000 inhabitants was crossed in the study area. The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs, the attack rates and the serial interval distribution of nosocomial transmission were computed. Demographic characteristics of HCWs, contacts with index cases, and the use of personal protective equipment were collected by a structured questionnaire. Results The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs was 2.7‰. Among 19 situations (13 clusters >2 cases), 10 were HCW-HCW and 9 patient-HCW transmission, the global attack rate was 13.7% (95% confidence interval, 10.6%–17.3%), and 68 HCWs were involved (10 index cases, with 58 secondary cases). Exposure of secondary cases was only in the presymptomatic phase of the index case in 29% of cases, 48% for HCW-HCW and 10% for patient-HCW transmission (P<0.001). The mean serial interval was 5.1 days (95% CI, 4.2–5.9 days). Preventative measures were not optimal. Conclusions Our investigation demonstrated that HCWs who were not assigned to the care of COVID-19 patients were not prepared for the arrival of this particularly insidious new virus, which spread rapidly from an often asymptomatic colleague or patient.

European Geriatric Medicine, 2018

Purpose The objectives of the epidemiological investigation were to describe factors associated w... more Purpose The objectives of the epidemiological investigation were to describe factors associated with prolonged transmission of acute gastroenteritis in a nursing home during a norovirus outbreak. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted among residents (N = 89) and staff members (N = 86) of the nursing home. Outbreak description was performed in both residents and staff members. Among residents, attack rates and relative risks and their 95% confidence interval (95% CI) associated with different identified risk factors including consumption of normal, mixed and choped meal, score of dependency were calculated. A multivariate logistic regression model was fitted to assess the independent association between risk factors and the occurrence of acute gastroenteritis over the entire outbreak duration. Environmental investigations and review of practices were carried out among staff. Results Respectively 49/89 respondent residents (AR 58%) and 9/47 respondent staff members (AR 19%) reported gastrointestinal symptoms between September 17 and October 21, 2016. Norovirus type II was isolated in five stool samples. Residents with dependency score (Gir) below 4 were at higher risk of acute gastroenteritis [RR 2.1 (95% CI 1.1-4.1)] compared to those autonomous. It was the only identified risk factor. In addition, the review of practices in staff identified several breaks in the application of hygiene control standards including misuse of personal protective equipment (gloves were not changed between caring for different patients), inappropriate hand hygiene technique, and disinfection of environmental surfaces with an ineffective product on norovirus. Conclusions This episode reminds the importance of early recognition of acute gastroenteritis cases and the implementation of rigorous management measures in order to limit the spread of the epidemic in a highly vulnerable dependent population.

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease, 2010

The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time po... more The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction assay (Xpert vanA/vanB, Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) was evaluated on 804 rectal swab specimens. Compared to enriched culture, sensitivity and negative predictive value of this method were 100%. Many false-positive results were recovered (sensitivity, 85.4%; positive predictive value, 8.7%), especially for the vanB gene.

Vaccine, 2019

Background: Seasonal influenza has a major individual and collective impact, especially among the... more Background: Seasonal influenza has a major individual and collective impact, especially among the elderly living in nursing homes. To prevent infection by influenza viruses, vaccination of residents and professionals is an essential measure. However, while the vaccination rates of residents are generally high (>85%), rates among professionals are generally approximately 20%. To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention campaign on the improvement of the influenza vaccination rate of professionals, a regional intervention study was proposed for nursing homes during the 2014-15 season. Methods: Cluster-randomized controlled trial (with a nursing home representing a cluster). In the intervention group, a campaign on influenza vaccination was offered to staff, combining different teaching aids in a multimodal approach. In the control group, no intervention was proposed. The primary endpoint was the rate of influenza vaccination among staff. Before and after the study, professionals were asked to complete short questionnaires on their perceptions of influenza vaccination. A multilevel analysis was carried out to compare the vaccination rates between the 2 groups and their evolution before/after the winter period. Results: A total of 32 nursing homes were randomized, and 6 were excluded. Initial vaccination rates were 27.6% in the intervention group and 24.2% in the control group (p = 0.16). After the study, these rates increased to 33.7% and 22.9%, respectively, which was a relative difference of +22.1% in the intervention group compared to À5.4% in the control group, p = 0.0025. Conclusions: Despite professionals' reluctance to be vaccinate, participation in a promotional campaign with a pragmatic approach has increased the rate of influenza vaccination. The approach will be offered to all nursing homes in the region after revision of the tools to enhance their ease of use and pedagogical messages focused on the direct benefits to professionals.

Introduction. L'entérocolite ulcéronécrosante (ECUN) est une cause majeure de morbimortalité ... more Introduction. L'entérocolite ulcéronécrosante (ECUN) est une cause majeure de morbimortalité en néonatologie. Un cas groupé de neuf cas est survenu dans un service de néonatologie sur une période de trois mois. Les objectifs de cet article sont de décrire cet épisode, les mesures de contrôle instaurées, et d'émettre et vérifier des hypothèses sur l'origine de ce cas groupé. Matériel et méthodes. Audit de l'organisation et des pratiques de préparation de l'alimentation entérale puis inspection de l'Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé, recherches bactériologiques et virologiques, prélèvements d'environnement, des laits et des suppléments. Réalisation d'une enquête étiologique de cohorte rétrospective afin de préciser les facteurs de risque. Résultats. Une cellule de crise a été constituée et des réunions de suivi ont été organisées. Les mesures de gestion immédiates comprenaient la suspension provisoire de l'alimentat...

Background: Health care workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to COVID-19 and therefore it is p... more Background: Health care workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to COVID-19 and therefore it is paramount to study preventive measures in this population. Aim: To investigate socio-demographic factors and professional practice associated with the risk of COVID-19 among HCWs in health establishments in Normandy, France Methods: A cross-sectional and 3 case-control studies were conducted in order to explore the possible risk factors that lead to SARS-CoV2 transmission within HCWs, based on an online questionnaire. The case-control studies focused on risk factors associated with care of COVID-19 patients, care of non COVID-19 patients and contacts between colleagues. Findings: Among 2,058 respondents, respectively 1,363 (66.2%) and 695 (33.8%) in medical and medico-social establishments, 301 (14.6%) reported having been infected by SARS-CoV2. When caring for COVID-19 patients, HCWs who declared wearing respirators, either for all patient care (ORa 0.39; 95% CI: 0.29-0.51) or only when ...

Infection Prevention in Practice

Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowled... more Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowledge of SARS-COV-2 characteristics was limited, and personal protective equipment (PPE) was lacking. Thus, health care workers (HCWs) were exposed to nosocomial transmission. Methods A multicenter regional descriptive study of fifty-two heath care facilities covering 30,533 HCWs in western Normandy, France, from March 3 to March 27, 2020, before the incidence threshold of 10/100,000 inhabitants was crossed in the study area. The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs, the attack rates and the serial interval distribution of nosocomial transmission were computed. Demographic characteristics of HCWs, contacts with index cases, and the use of personal protective equipment were collected by a structured questionnaire. Results The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs was 2.7‰. Among 19 situations (13 clusters >2 cases), 10 were HCW-HCW and 9 patient-HCW transmission, the global attack rate was 13.7% (95% confidence interval, 10.6%–17.3%), and 68 HCWs were involved (10 index cases, with 58 secondary cases). Exposure of secondary cases was only in the presymptomatic phase of the index case in 29% of cases, 48% for HCW-HCW and 10% for patient-HCW transmission (P<0.001). The mean serial interval was 5.1 days (95% CI, 4.2–5.9 days). Preventative measures were not optimal. Conclusions Our investigation demonstrated that HCWs who were not assigned to the care of COVID-19 patients were not prepared for the arrival of this particularly insidious new virus, which spread rapidly from an often asymptomatic colleague or patient.

Critical Care Medicine, 2011

In 2005, there was an epidemic of infections resulting from extended-spectrum β-lactamase-produci... more In 2005, there was an epidemic of infections resulting from extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in the intensive care department. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential long-term clinical and economic benefits resulting from the management of this epidemic and the resulting changes in practices. Two periods were defined: the period leading up to and including the epidemic (2003-2005; period I) and the postepidemic period (2006-2008; period II). We estimated the number of nosocomial infections prevented between these two periods in three ways: comparison of attack rates, incidence rates, and calculation of standardized infection ratios. A cost-benefit analysis was then carried out by multiplying the number of nosocomial infections prevented by their cost as estimated from a literature review. The characteristics of the populations hospitalized during these two periods were comparable in terms of age, sex, Simplified Acute Physiologic Scale II score, origin, and type of diagnosis. The death rate was similar in the two periods (21.8% vs. 23.3%; p = .63). The number of nosocomial infections prevented was 54.1 (95% confidence interval 25.8-83.1; 30.4, 95% confidence interval 5.3-54.9; 32.8, 95% confidence interval 6.0-63.7; and 30.1, 95% confidence interval 17.7-42.5) according to the methodology. The savings cost potentially associated with the infection control intervention ranged from €149,928 (USD 183,781)to€269,472(USD183,781) to €269,472 (USD 183,781)to€269,472(USD330,318). The management of this epidemic and the change in medical practices that it triggered were associated with a significant decrease in the number of infections acquired in the intensive care unit. There were substantial cost savings, highlighting the value of investment in the prevention of nosocomial infections.

Anesthesiology, 2012

Benefits and limitations of supplementation with 80% fraction of inspired oxygen for preventing s... more Benefits and limitations of supplementation with 80% fraction of inspired oxygen for preventing surgical site infections have not yet been clearly defined. Some studies have reported benefits in colorectal surgery, whereas trials in abdominal and gynecologic surgery have reported either no effect or a deleterious effect. Controlled, randomized, assessor-blind multicenter trial, the ISO2 study, comparing the effects of hyperoxygenation (fraction of inspired oxygen, 80%) with those of 30% oxygen on the frequency of surgical site infections in routine abdominal, gynecologic, and breast surgery on 434 patients. Patients not seen in consultation after discharge were contacted. In total, 208 patients received 30% perioperative oxygen and 226 received 80%. There was no difference between the two groups for baseline, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics, except for oxygen saturation at closure, higher in the 80% group (P=0.01). The frequency of 30-day surgical site infections was 7.2% (15/208) in the 30% group and 6.6% (15/226) in the 80% group (relative risk, 0.92; 95% CI [0.46-1.84], P=0.81). Frequency of adverse events (nausea and vomiting, sternal pain, cough, hypotension) was similar in the two groups. Desaturation and bradycardia were more frequent in the 30% group. In an updated meta-analysis including the result of this trial and those of eight published randomized trials, the overall relative risk was 0.97; 95% CI (0.68-1.40), I2 (inconsistency degree)=73%, (P=0.88). The routine use of hyperoxygenation throughout abdominal, gynecologic, and breast surgery had no effect on the frequency of 30-day surgical site infections and was not accompanied by more frequent adverse effects.

Acta Neurochirurgica, 2011

To enhance the water tightness of dura mater closure in cranial surgery, an organic glue called B... more To enhance the water tightness of dura mater closure in cranial surgery, an organic glue called BioGlue was used in our neurosurgical department between January 2006 and June 2007. During this period of time, we noticed an important increase in the surgical site infection (SSI) incidence. We conducted a case-control study to identify risk factors for these infections. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that BioGlue was one of the risk factors. Cases with infection were defined retrospectively. We included two controls per case. Study data were age, sex, time of year, in stay hospital preoperative time, length of surgery, type of surgery, surgeon, use of BioGlue, and use of duraplasty. We first performed a univariate analysis and then the significant variables were introduced in a logistic regression model. Thirty patients were defined as cases (60 controls). In multivariate analysis, risk factors were young age (p = 0.04), extended operative length (p = 0.02) and the use of BioGlue (p = 0.007). The combined use of BioGlue and Neuropatch appeared to be a significant risk factor for SSI (p = 0.002). BioGlue seems to increase the risk of SSI for patients who underwent craniotomy, especially when associated with synthetic dural graft. BioGlue triggers an intense inflammatory response, which causes wound breaches allowing bacteria to spread down in the wound, and then creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease, 2010

The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time po... more The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction assay (Xpert™ vanA/vanB, Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) was evaluated on 804 rectal swab specimens. Compared to enriched culture, sensitivity and negative predictive value of this method were 100%. Many false-positive results were recovered (sensitivity, 85.4%; positive predictive value, 8.7%), especially for the vanB gene.

Background Older adults living in nursing homes (NH) paid a heavy price to the COVID-19 pandemic,... more Background Older adults living in nursing homes (NH) paid a heavy price to the COVID-19 pandemic, despite early and often drastic prevention measures. Aims To study the characteristics and the impact of the pandemic on NH residents and professionals over 2 years. Methods Cross sectional study of COVID-19 clusters among residents and/or professionals in NH, from March 2020 to February 2022, in Normandy, France. We used data from the French mandatory reporting system, and cross-correlation analysis. Results The weekly proportion of NH with clusters was strongly correlated with population incidence (r > 0.70). Attack rates among residents and professionals were significantly lower in period 2 (vaccination rate in residents ≥50%) compared with periods 1 (waves 1 and 2) and 3 (Omicron variant ≥50%). Among residents, mortality and case fatality rates decreased drastically during periods 2 and 3. Conclusions Our study provides figures on the evolution of the pandemic in NH.

Infection Prevention in Practice, 2021

Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowled... more Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowledge of SARS-COV-2 characteristics was limited, and personal protective equipment (PPE) was lacking. Thus, health care workers (HCWs) were exposed to nosocomial transmission. Methods A multicenter regional descriptive study of fifty-two heath care facilities covering 30,533 HCWs in western Normandy, France, from March 3 to March 27, 2020, before the incidence threshold of 10/100,000 inhabitants was crossed in the study area. The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs, the attack rates and the serial interval distribution of nosocomial transmission were computed. Demographic characteristics of HCWs, contacts with index cases, and the use of personal protective equipment were collected by a structured questionnaire. Results The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs was 2.7‰. Among 19 situations (13 clusters >2 cases), 10 were HCW-HCW and 9 patient-HCW transmission, the global attack rate was 13.7% (95% confidence interval, 10.6%–17.3%), and 68 HCWs were involved (10 index cases, with 58 secondary cases). Exposure of secondary cases was only in the presymptomatic phase of the index case in 29% of cases, 48% for HCW-HCW and 10% for patient-HCW transmission (P<0.001). The mean serial interval was 5.1 days (95% CI, 4.2–5.9 days). Preventative measures were not optimal. Conclusions Our investigation demonstrated that HCWs who were not assigned to the care of COVID-19 patients were not prepared for the arrival of this particularly insidious new virus, which spread rapidly from an often asymptomatic colleague or patient.

European Geriatric Medicine, 2018

Purpose The objectives of the epidemiological investigation were to describe factors associated w... more Purpose The objectives of the epidemiological investigation were to describe factors associated with prolonged transmission of acute gastroenteritis in a nursing home during a norovirus outbreak. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted among residents (N = 89) and staff members (N = 86) of the nursing home. Outbreak description was performed in both residents and staff members. Among residents, attack rates and relative risks and their 95% confidence interval (95% CI) associated with different identified risk factors including consumption of normal, mixed and choped meal, score of dependency were calculated. A multivariate logistic regression model was fitted to assess the independent association between risk factors and the occurrence of acute gastroenteritis over the entire outbreak duration. Environmental investigations and review of practices were carried out among staff. Results Respectively 49/89 respondent residents (AR 58%) and 9/47 respondent staff members (AR 19%) reported gastrointestinal symptoms between September 17 and October 21, 2016. Norovirus type II was isolated in five stool samples. Residents with dependency score (Gir) below 4 were at higher risk of acute gastroenteritis [RR 2.1 (95% CI 1.1-4.1)] compared to those autonomous. It was the only identified risk factor. In addition, the review of practices in staff identified several breaks in the application of hygiene control standards including misuse of personal protective equipment (gloves were not changed between caring for different patients), inappropriate hand hygiene technique, and disinfection of environmental surfaces with an ineffective product on norovirus. Conclusions This episode reminds the importance of early recognition of acute gastroenteritis cases and the implementation of rigorous management measures in order to limit the spread of the epidemic in a highly vulnerable dependent population.

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease, 2010

The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time po... more The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction assay (Xpert vanA/vanB, Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) was evaluated on 804 rectal swab specimens. Compared to enriched culture, sensitivity and negative predictive value of this method were 100%. Many false-positive results were recovered (sensitivity, 85.4%; positive predictive value, 8.7%), especially for the vanB gene.

Vaccine, 2019

Background: Seasonal influenza has a major individual and collective impact, especially among the... more Background: Seasonal influenza has a major individual and collective impact, especially among the elderly living in nursing homes. To prevent infection by influenza viruses, vaccination of residents and professionals is an essential measure. However, while the vaccination rates of residents are generally high (>85%), rates among professionals are generally approximately 20%. To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention campaign on the improvement of the influenza vaccination rate of professionals, a regional intervention study was proposed for nursing homes during the 2014-15 season. Methods: Cluster-randomized controlled trial (with a nursing home representing a cluster). In the intervention group, a campaign on influenza vaccination was offered to staff, combining different teaching aids in a multimodal approach. In the control group, no intervention was proposed. The primary endpoint was the rate of influenza vaccination among staff. Before and after the study, professionals were asked to complete short questionnaires on their perceptions of influenza vaccination. A multilevel analysis was carried out to compare the vaccination rates between the 2 groups and their evolution before/after the winter period. Results: A total of 32 nursing homes were randomized, and 6 were excluded. Initial vaccination rates were 27.6% in the intervention group and 24.2% in the control group (p = 0.16). After the study, these rates increased to 33.7% and 22.9%, respectively, which was a relative difference of +22.1% in the intervention group compared to À5.4% in the control group, p = 0.0025. Conclusions: Despite professionals' reluctance to be vaccinate, participation in a promotional campaign with a pragmatic approach has increased the rate of influenza vaccination. The approach will be offered to all nursing homes in the region after revision of the tools to enhance their ease of use and pedagogical messages focused on the direct benefits to professionals.

Introduction. L'entérocolite ulcéronécrosante (ECUN) est une cause majeure de morbimortalité ... more Introduction. L'entérocolite ulcéronécrosante (ECUN) est une cause majeure de morbimortalité en néonatologie. Un cas groupé de neuf cas est survenu dans un service de néonatologie sur une période de trois mois. Les objectifs de cet article sont de décrire cet épisode, les mesures de contrôle instaurées, et d'émettre et vérifier des hypothèses sur l'origine de ce cas groupé. Matériel et méthodes. Audit de l'organisation et des pratiques de préparation de l'alimentation entérale puis inspection de l'Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé, recherches bactériologiques et virologiques, prélèvements d'environnement, des laits et des suppléments. Réalisation d'une enquête étiologique de cohorte rétrospective afin de préciser les facteurs de risque. Résultats. Une cellule de crise a été constituée et des réunions de suivi ont été organisées. Les mesures de gestion immédiates comprenaient la suspension provisoire de l'alimentat...

Background: Health care workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to COVID-19 and therefore it is p... more Background: Health care workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to COVID-19 and therefore it is paramount to study preventive measures in this population. Aim: To investigate socio-demographic factors and professional practice associated with the risk of COVID-19 among HCWs in health establishments in Normandy, France Methods: A cross-sectional and 3 case-control studies were conducted in order to explore the possible risk factors that lead to SARS-CoV2 transmission within HCWs, based on an online questionnaire. The case-control studies focused on risk factors associated with care of COVID-19 patients, care of non COVID-19 patients and contacts between colleagues. Findings: Among 2,058 respondents, respectively 1,363 (66.2%) and 695 (33.8%) in medical and medico-social establishments, 301 (14.6%) reported having been infected by SARS-CoV2. When caring for COVID-19 patients, HCWs who declared wearing respirators, either for all patient care (ORa 0.39; 95% CI: 0.29-0.51) or only when ...

Infection Prevention in Practice

Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowled... more Introduction In the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in France, knowledge of SARS-COV-2 characteristics was limited, and personal protective equipment (PPE) was lacking. Thus, health care workers (HCWs) were exposed to nosocomial transmission. Methods A multicenter regional descriptive study of fifty-two heath care facilities covering 30,533 HCWs in western Normandy, France, from March 3 to March 27, 2020, before the incidence threshold of 10/100,000 inhabitants was crossed in the study area. The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs, the attack rates and the serial interval distribution of nosocomial transmission were computed. Demographic characteristics of HCWs, contacts with index cases, and the use of personal protective equipment were collected by a structured questionnaire. Results The incidence rate of COVID-19 in HCWs was 2.7‰. Among 19 situations (13 clusters >2 cases), 10 were HCW-HCW and 9 patient-HCW transmission, the global attack rate was 13.7% (95% confidence interval, 10.6%–17.3%), and 68 HCWs were involved (10 index cases, with 58 secondary cases). Exposure of secondary cases was only in the presymptomatic phase of the index case in 29% of cases, 48% for HCW-HCW and 10% for patient-HCW transmission (P<0.001). The mean serial interval was 5.1 days (95% CI, 4.2–5.9 days). Preventative measures were not optimal. Conclusions Our investigation demonstrated that HCWs who were not assigned to the care of COVID-19 patients were not prepared for the arrival of this particularly insidious new virus, which spread rapidly from an often asymptomatic colleague or patient.

Critical Care Medicine, 2011

In 2005, there was an epidemic of infections resulting from extended-spectrum β-lactamase-produci... more In 2005, there was an epidemic of infections resulting from extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in the intensive care department. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential long-term clinical and economic benefits resulting from the management of this epidemic and the resulting changes in practices. Two periods were defined: the period leading up to and including the epidemic (2003-2005; period I) and the postepidemic period (2006-2008; period II). We estimated the number of nosocomial infections prevented between these two periods in three ways: comparison of attack rates, incidence rates, and calculation of standardized infection ratios. A cost-benefit analysis was then carried out by multiplying the number of nosocomial infections prevented by their cost as estimated from a literature review. The characteristics of the populations hospitalized during these two periods were comparable in terms of age, sex, Simplified Acute Physiologic Scale II score, origin, and type of diagnosis. The death rate was similar in the two periods (21.8% vs. 23.3%; p = .63). The number of nosocomial infections prevented was 54.1 (95% confidence interval 25.8-83.1; 30.4, 95% confidence interval 5.3-54.9; 32.8, 95% confidence interval 6.0-63.7; and 30.1, 95% confidence interval 17.7-42.5) according to the methodology. The savings cost potentially associated with the infection control intervention ranged from €149,928 (USD 183,781)to€269,472(USD183,781) to €269,472 (USD 183,781)to€269,472(USD330,318). The management of this epidemic and the change in medical practices that it triggered were associated with a significant decrease in the number of infections acquired in the intensive care unit. There were substantial cost savings, highlighting the value of investment in the prevention of nosocomial infections.

Anesthesiology, 2012

Benefits and limitations of supplementation with 80% fraction of inspired oxygen for preventing s... more Benefits and limitations of supplementation with 80% fraction of inspired oxygen for preventing surgical site infections have not yet been clearly defined. Some studies have reported benefits in colorectal surgery, whereas trials in abdominal and gynecologic surgery have reported either no effect or a deleterious effect. Controlled, randomized, assessor-blind multicenter trial, the ISO2 study, comparing the effects of hyperoxygenation (fraction of inspired oxygen, 80%) with those of 30% oxygen on the frequency of surgical site infections in routine abdominal, gynecologic, and breast surgery on 434 patients. Patients not seen in consultation after discharge were contacted. In total, 208 patients received 30% perioperative oxygen and 226 received 80%. There was no difference between the two groups for baseline, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics, except for oxygen saturation at closure, higher in the 80% group (P=0.01). The frequency of 30-day surgical site infections was 7.2% (15/208) in the 30% group and 6.6% (15/226) in the 80% group (relative risk, 0.92; 95% CI [0.46-1.84], P=0.81). Frequency of adverse events (nausea and vomiting, sternal pain, cough, hypotension) was similar in the two groups. Desaturation and bradycardia were more frequent in the 30% group. In an updated meta-analysis including the result of this trial and those of eight published randomized trials, the overall relative risk was 0.97; 95% CI (0.68-1.40), I2 (inconsistency degree)=73%, (P=0.88). The routine use of hyperoxygenation throughout abdominal, gynecologic, and breast surgery had no effect on the frequency of 30-day surgical site infections and was not accompanied by more frequent adverse effects.

Acta Neurochirurgica, 2011

To enhance the water tightness of dura mater closure in cranial surgery, an organic glue called B... more To enhance the water tightness of dura mater closure in cranial surgery, an organic glue called BioGlue was used in our neurosurgical department between January 2006 and June 2007. During this period of time, we noticed an important increase in the surgical site infection (SSI) incidence. We conducted a case-control study to identify risk factors for these infections. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that BioGlue was one of the risk factors. Cases with infection were defined retrospectively. We included two controls per case. Study data were age, sex, time of year, in stay hospital preoperative time, length of surgery, type of surgery, surgeon, use of BioGlue, and use of duraplasty. We first performed a univariate analysis and then the significant variables were introduced in a logistic regression model. Thirty patients were defined as cases (60 controls). In multivariate analysis, risk factors were young age (p = 0.04), extended operative length (p = 0.02) and the use of BioGlue (p = 0.007). The combined use of BioGlue and Neuropatch appeared to be a significant risk factor for SSI (p = 0.002). BioGlue seems to increase the risk of SSI for patients who underwent craniotomy, especially when associated with synthetic dural graft. BioGlue triggers an intense inflammatory response, which causes wound breaches allowing bacteria to spread down in the wound, and then creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease, 2010

The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time po... more The detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci using a novel commercial multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction assay (Xpert™ vanA/vanB, Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) was evaluated on 804 rectal swab specimens. Compared to enriched culture, sensitivity and negative predictive value of this method were 100%. Many false-positive results were recovered (sensitivity, 85.4%; positive predictive value, 8.7%), especially for the vanB gene.