Metronidazole in the chemoprophylaxis of colon and rectum operations.

In the preparation of colorectal operations, beside the mechanical cleaning of the bowels, orally administered metronidazole, acting on anaerobic bacteria, was found to be highly effective. Compared to the controls, the drug considerably reduced the number and severity of postoperative infections, and, consequently, also the mortality. With metronidazole prophylaxis no wound suppuration indicating anaerobic infection was noted. The combined application of metronidazole with some antibiotic acting on the aerobic bacteria of the intestinal flora resulted in a significant reduction of postoperative infections.