413 The Clinical Efficacy of Intra-Operative Peritoneal Fluid Sampling in Abdominal infections

Abstract

Abstract Aim To uncover the practical efficacy of intra-operative peritoneal fluid sampling and the impact on antibiotic prescription and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing emergency surgery due to intra-abdominal infections. Method Our retrospective study included all patients undergoing emergency surgery for intra-abdominal infections at Southend University Hospital over 6 months (January – July 2019). Data was collected from electronic patient records, case notes and microbiology reports and included the following information: patient age demographics; type of infection; peritoneal fluid sampling indication; samples taken; details of swab culture report including organisms grown and antibiotic sensitivity; clinical course and incidence of subsequent intra-abdominal infection to include readmission and/or further procedures; the type, duration and route of antibiotic prescribed and duration of hospital stay. This audit was approved by the Departmental Audit Lead. Results 441 patients undergoing emergency surgery for intra-abdominal infection were identified. After exclusions, intra-operative peritoneal fluid samples were indicated in 77 patients (mean age 39.4 years). Of these only 3 had samples taken (3.9%). The most common organisms isolated were mixed anaerobes followed by Streptococcus angiosus. The most common antibiotic sensitivity was Metronidazole and Penicillin. One readmission occurred due to an intra-abdominal tubo-ovarian abscess. Conclusions The study shows that the current practice in our hospital regarding intra-operative peritoneal fluid sampling in intra-abdominal infections reflects the present widely held attitudes regarding its reduced practical utility. Abandoning routine sampling had no significant impact on the clinical course and may be more cost-effective. The study may help surgeons reflect on changing perspectives on this traditional practice.