[The use of antibiotics in surgical prophylaxis. The characteristics and consequences].

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis in certain surgical procedures has been demonstrated in clinical trials. The present study aimed at getting knowledge on the way how it is used in a certain hospital.

METHODS

In a certain day, all patients receiving antibiotics to prevent a postoperative infection were identified in a medical school hospital. Information on the operative procedure, prescribed antibiotics and clinical course of the patients was recorded.

RESULTS

Out of 714 patients admitted, 255 (36%) were treated with antibiotics and, of these, 85 were given them to prevent a postoperative infection. In 52% of patients, two or more antibiotics were given. The mean (SD) duration of prophylaxis was 8.4 (8.6) days. It was judged as really indicated in 34 cases (40%). Only in 17 (20%) the first choice antibiotic was selected; in 11 (13%) a preoperative dose of the right antibiotic was administered and only in 3 (3.5%) a preoperative dose of the first choice antibiotic was administered and prophylaxis lasted up to 48 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of antibiotics in surgical prophylaxis in a medical school hospital is inappropriate in more than 95% of cases. The situation in other centres should be quantified and the universally accepted norms of prophylaxis should be implemented.