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Updated: Sep 17, 2025

Murine Ileocolic Bowel Resection with Primary Anastomosis
Published on: October 29, 2014
Do Perioperative Probiotics/Synbiotics Reduce Postoperative Infection Rates Following Elective Colorectal Surgery? A
Claudia Paterson1, Amanda Nikolic2, Tamara Glyn3
1Department of Surgery, Te Whatu Ora-Counties Manukau, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
Perioperative probiotics/synbiotics significantly reduce postoperative infections after colorectal surgery. This meta-analysis shows these supplements nearly halve infection rates within 30 days, offering a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Infections
- Microbiome Research
Background:
- Postoperative infections are a significant concern in elective colorectal surgery (CRS).
- Perioperative probiotics and synbiotics aim to modulate the gut microbiota to prevent these infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.
- To evaluate the efficacy of perioperative probiotics/synbiotics in reducing postoperative infection rates after elective CRS.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
- Searched six databases up to February 7, 2023.
- Included RCTs comparing perioperative probiotics/synbiotics in adult patients undergoing elective colorectal resection.
Main Results:
- Twenty-eight RCTs with 2686 participants were analyzed.
- Probiotics/synbiotics were associated with a significant reduction in total postoperative infections within 30 days (RR 0.55, P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Perioperative probiotics/synbiotics nearly halve infection rates in elective CRS.
- Further research is needed on optimal regimens and confounding factors before widespread clinical adoption.
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