Antibiotic prophylaxis for preventing surgical site infection

Abstract

P P I THE IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTING postoperative surgical site infection is well established. To accomplish this goal, good infection control techniques (e.g., proper cleansing of the skin and strict perioperative aseptic technique) and normal blood glucose levels are necessary. In addition, appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis is important. The antibiotic(s) should be administered when the risk of infection is high, the severities of the consequences of surgical site infection are significant, and/or antibiotic prophylaxis has been demonstrated to be effective in that particular type of surgery. Prophylactic antibiotics are not appropriate for all patients, however, because inappropriate use can promote the development of resistant organisms.