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[Prevention of preoperative infection with metronidazole]
Abstract:
We practiced a preoperative prophylaxis with 1.5g metronidazole daily starting three days before operation because of the increasing knowledge about the importance of anaerobic microorganisms, causing nosocomial infections. By this regime we saw a significant decrease of postoperative morbidity, detected by means of postoperative febrile temperatures and laparotomy wound abscesses. Bacteriological examinations before and after prophylaxis revealed a relatively high elimination of anaerobic isolates without influence on the aerobic and physiologic flora. In 66% of the cases with infections we isolate anaerobic strains. In cases of pelvic inflammatory diseases metronidazole is to be recommended both prophylactically and therapeutically. There is no resistance against metronidazole.
Insights
Preoperative prophylaxis with metronidazole significantly reduced postoperative morbidity and eliminated anaerobic bacteria, crucial for preventing nosocomial infections. This treatment is effective for pelvic inflammatory diseases with no observed resistance.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Surgical Prophylaxis
Context:
- Increasing recognition of anaerobic microorganisms in nosocomial infections.
- Need for effective preoperative strategies to combat surgical site infections.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of preoperative metronidazole prophylaxis in reducing postoperative morbidity.
- To assess the impact of metronidazole on anaerobic and aerobic flora.
Summary:
- A preoperative prophylaxis regimen of 1.5g daily metronidazole, initiated three days prior to surgery, led to a significant decrease in postoperative morbidity.
- This included reduced instances of postoperative febrile temperatures and laparotomy wound abscesses.
- Bacteriological examinations confirmed a high elimination rate of anaerobic isolates without adversely affecting aerobic or physiological flora.
Impact:
- Metronidazole prophylaxis is effective in preventing anaerobic bacterial infections in surgical patients.
- The study supports the prophylactic and therapeutic use of metronidazole for pelvic inflammatory diseases.
- No instances of metronidazole resistance were observed, highlighting its continued utility.