Individual patient risk factors for wound infections, such as alcohol abuse, smoking or obesity can usually only be modified to a small extent. Studies have shown a reduction of surgical site infections due to the implementation of a benchmarking surveillance system. In order to prevent surgical site infections a variety of interventions are available, such as glucose control, correction of anemia and malnutrition and antibiotic therapy of infections before elective surgery. Reduction of the microbial skin flora by whole body washing procedures, avoidance of sharp razor shaving, application of antibiotic prophylaxis and correct surgical hand disinfection are additional measures. Intraoperative hypothermia should be avoided and strict compliance with asepsis is mandatory. Postoperative preventive measures include appropriate wound care and rapid removal of wound drainage.