antibiotics in miscellaneous orthopaedic surgery
Last reviewed 01/2018
There is no requirement for routine aseptic procedures such as arthroscopy and joint aspiration, and short, 'clean' non-implant procedures (1).
High dose antibiotics are often given during any procedure involving the insertion of metalwork.
Spinal surgery, such as disc removal, may set up a deep infection resulting in:
- acute or chronic back pain
- nerve root compression
- scarring
- arachnoiditis Despite the lack of empirical evidence, the balance of opinion favours antibiotic prophylaxis in spinal surgery.
Reference:
- (1) Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (2001), 39 (6), 43-6.