Abstract

SURGICAL ANTIBIOTIC PROPHYLAXIS IN A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL IN INDIA

*V. Gokul Raghu Ram, VidyaSagar R.A, G.Gopala Krishnan, M.Senthivelan

ABSTRACT

The original surgical antibiotic prophylaxis experiments were performed 40 years ago in pigs. The results concluded that 'the most effective period for prophylaxis begins the moment bacteria gain access to the tissues and is over in three hours. Since then there have been many studies in animal models and in humans undergoing surgery. This has resulted in the principles of antibiotic prophylaxis becoming an accepted part of surgical practice. Approximately 30– 50% of antibiotic use in hospital practice is now for surgical prophylaxis. However, between 30% and 90% of this prophylaxis is inappropriate. Most commonly, the antibiotic is either given at the wrong time or continued for too long. Controversy remains as to duration of prophylaxis and also as to which specific surgical procedures should receive prophylaxis Prophylactic administration of antibiotics decreases the risk of infection after many surgical procedures and represents an important component of care for this population. Antibiotics administered prior to the contamination of previously sterile tissues or fluids are called prophylactic antibiotics. The goal of therapy is to prevent an infection from developing. When evaluating the outcome of surgical antibiotic prophylaxis, it is important to differentiate any potential SSI from other postoperative infection or complication. Prophylaxis should be as short as possible because prolonged prophylactic regimens may contribute to the selection of resistant organisms and may make any infection more difficult to treat.

Keywords: surgical, prophylaxis, antibiotics, infections.