Updated statement from Executive Director Dr. Larry Wolk regarding the infection control breach at Porter Adventist Hospital
April 11, 2018
Porter Adventist Hospital will resume surgeries on a limited schedule tomorrow after instituting a number of changes recommended by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
Through its investigation into the infection control breach at Porter Adventist Hospital, the department now has learned of a number of patients who had surgical site infections after orthopedic or spine surgery at Porter between July 21, 2016 and April 5, 2018. It is unknown if these infections are linked to the breach, and we may not be able to determine linkage.
In addition, the department may not be able to determine if any cases of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV that may be detected are linked to the breach.
The risk of surgical site infection related to this event (above the usual risk related to surgery) is unknown. The risk of getting bloodborne pathogens (HIV, hepatitis C or hepatitis B) as a result of this breach also is unknown, but considered low. The department recommended Porter notify people who had orthopedic or spine surgery at the hospital between July 21, 2016 and April 5, 2018 that they may be at risk.
On April 5, Porter voluntarily closed its operating rooms for two reasons. The primary concern was with the cleaning process for surgical tools following orthopedic and spine surgeries. The other potential concern was related to residue on surgical tools after sterilization. Porter reported this was potentially due to a water quality issue. As a result, water testing was conducted, and water quality at Porter was found to be well within the typical range found in drinking water.
The department cannot comment further at this time, because the investigation is ongoing. The department’s report is expected to be released in early summer.
Porter has established a hotline for patient questions. The phone number is 303-778-5694.
The public can call the Colorado Health Emergency Line for Public Information (COHELP) at 303-389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911 for general questions about surgical site infections, HIV, hepatitis C and hepatitis B. COHELP hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The public also can email COHELP at mailto:COHELP@rmpdc.org.