PROPHYLAXIS OF INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS DURING GASTRO-INTESTINAL PROCEDURES - REPORT OF A SURVEY

An inquiry concerning prophylaxis of infective endocarditis when gastrointestinal procedures were performed in patients with valvular heart disease elicited 123 responses (65%) from directors of 188 gastroenterology teaching programs. Only a minority of those polled used prophylaxis against infective endocarditis under any circumstances. Of those using prophylaxis in the course of diagnostic colonoscopy or polypectomy, only 28% used therapy appropriate for preventing enterococcus infection. Ampicillin and gentamicin or vancomycin and gentamicin, as recommended by the American Heart Association, is probably indicated for those patients with prosthetic valves who undergo gastrointestinal diagnostic procedures. © 1979, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. All rights reserved.