[Antibiotic prophylaxis in colorectal surgery]

The literature of infections after colo-rectal surgery is reviewed, including the influence of mechanical preparation and the prophylactic use of various antibiotic combinations, orally or parenterally. Is is concluded that appropriate prophylaxis is mandatory. Third generation cephalosporins singly or in combination seem to give the best results in the majority of reports. They are economically justified as prophylaxis with antibiotics decreases hospital costs.