Prophylactic short course rectal metronidazole for cesarean section. A double-blind controlled trial of a simple low cost regimen.

One hundred and eighty two patients undergoing elective and emergency cesarean section were entered in a randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial of short course metronidazole rectal suppositories. There was a significant reduction in wound infection, febrile morbidity and postoperative hospitalization in the treated group. The reduction was greatest for serious wound infection. The simplicity and low cost of the regimen make it suitable for hospitals in developing countries.