Comparison of cefonicid and cefazolin prophylaxis in abdominal hysterectomy

One hundred and sixty-four patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy for benign diseases were prospectively evaluated. The efficacy and safety of surgical prophylaxis with a single dose of the long-acting cefonicid was compared to the standard three dose regimen of cefazolin. Prophylaxis was successful in 82 of 85 (96.5%) patients receiving cefonicid and in 77 of 79 (97.5%) patients receiving cefazolin. No serious adverse effects were encountered with both drugs. It is concluded that single dose intravenous cefonicid, when given preoperatively, is as safe and effective as the standard multiple dose regimen of cefazolin in patients undergoing elective abdominal hysterectomy.