source control
Surgical elimination or control of the infectious focus in septic patients.
Full Definition
Source control refers to the surgical or procedural elimination of the anatomic focus of infection in patients with sepsis or septic shock. This fundamental principle of sepsis management involves drainage of infected fluid collections, removal of infected or necrotic tissue, and repair of anatomical disruptions that allow ongoing contamination. In acute care surgery, source control procedures include appendectomy for appendicitis, bowel resection for perforation, or drainage of abscesses. The timing of source control is critical, as delayed intervention increases mortality risk. The procedure must be definitive enough to eliminate ongoing sepsis while minimizing physiological stress in critically ill patients. Adequate source control is often the difference between recovery and death in severe sepsis.
Usage
Usage note: Critical concept in sepsis management; specify the method of source control achieved.
In Context
- "Adequate source control was achieved through appendectomy and peritoneal lavage." — Operative report
- "Despite appropriate antibiotics, the patient required urgent source control for persistent septic shock." — ICU consultation