Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and antibiotic use in septorhinoplasty: case report and review of literature

Septorhinoplasty is a commonly performed procedure for facial aesthetics and obstructed nasal breathing. There have been only 4 reported cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)–associated postoperative complications following septorhinoplasty reported in the literature across all specialties. In this article, we report a case of MRSA-associated infection after an uncomplicated septorhinoplasty. Risk stratification and outcome of treatment are described, followed by a review of the current literature. We discuss the epidemiology of MRSA colonization, prophylactic use of antibiotics in septorhinoplasty, previously reported MRSA-associated septorhinoplasty infections, and management of complications. There are no current standards for MRSA decolonization before septorhinoplasty. Finally, we offer recommendations for patients at high risk for MRSA infection undergoing septorhinoplasty and considerations for treatment of MRSA infections should they occur after septorhinoplasty.