Single dose tinidazole prophylaxis in vaginal hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy and side effects of a single dose of tinidazole for infection following vaginal hysterectomy.

METHOD

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial using 2 g tinidazole 12 h before vaginal hysterectomy in 50 patients was conducted. No other antibiotic was used until the development of infection.

RESULT

There was a significant reduction (P < 0.01) of post-operative vaginal cuff cellulitis (54-16%). A similar reduction (P < 0.05) in febrile morbidity was also observed. The duration of postoperative hospital stay (P < 0.001) and use of additional antibiotics (P < 0.01) were also reduced. No adverse effect of tinidazole was noted.

CONCLUSION

A single dose of tinidazole appears to be a safe and effective alternative prevention against infection in vaginal hysterectomy.