The efficacy of a single dose antibiotic regimen in adults undergoing tonsillectomy

Several studies have indicated that antibiotics given for 5-7 days post-tonsillectomy are beneficial. A prospective double blind randomized study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of a long-acting antibiotic (Cefonicid) given prophylactically at the time of tonsillectomy. Dependent variables were percent weight loss, number of doses of pain medications required postoperatively, the number of days required to resume a normal diet, and return to work. The results of all independent tests indicated that there were no statistically significant differences between the Cefonicid group and the placebo group. The results of this study indicate that single dose prophylactic application of Cefonicid is not effective in adults undergoing tonsillectomy.