[Prophylactic antibiotic therapy in surgery: applications in digestive surgery].

Prophylactic use of antibiotic presently constitutes one essential method in the prevention of postoperative infections in digestive surgery. Prophylactic antibiotic therapy is based upon well-codified general rules and on indications determined by the type of surgery, the micro-organismal flora in the organ in question and relevant risk factors. An overview of these principles and indications is presented. The options available for different types of digestive surgery (gastroduodenal, biliary, colorectal) are reassessed in light of defined indications and the results of randomized trials.