Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Breast Cancer Surgery: A Multicontinental Survey Study

Prophylactic antibiotic (PPA) usage is a common practice in breast cancer surgery. However, there is limited information on the global patterns of antibiotic usage in this setting. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and preferences of PPA usage in breast cancer surgery among surgeons across different continents.

A multicontinental survey study was conducted among 295 surgeons who were actively involved in breast cancer surgery around the world. The survey collected information on PPA usage, preferred antibiotic choice, and factors influencing antibiotic prescribing patterns.

The survey revealed that PPA usage was widespread, with an overall prevalence of 89% among respondents. Cephalosporins were the most preferred antibiotics for prophylaxis. Antibiotic usage was similar and high among surgeons practicing in Europe (90%), in Asia (87%), and in other continents (91%). Academic surgeons and those dedicating a larger portion of their practice to breast cancer surgery reported a more frequent use of PPAs. Surgeons with >25 y of practice had the lowest rate of PPA use.

This multicontinental survey study highlights the high prevalence of PPA usage in breast cancer surgery among surgeons around the world, with cephalosporins being the preferred choice. Furthermore, academic surgeons and those specializing in breast cancer surgery were more likely to prescribe PPAs. These findings provide valuable insights into the current practices and trends in antibiotic usage in breast cancer surgery, emphasizing the need for further research and guidelines to optimize antibiotic stewardship in this surgical setting.