Single-versus multiple-dose antibiotics prophylaxis for cardiac surgery

Background: This study was carried out to determine if single-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis is sufficient for cardiac surgery. Methods: The study was a prospective non-randomized trial of 353 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Group A (n = 151) received 48 h of prophylaxis and Group B (n = 202) received a single dose. Cephazolin was used in all patients except those at high risk from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) who received teicoplanin and timentin. Results: There was an overall in-hospital infection rate of 2.8%. There was no significant difference in rate or type of infection between the two groups. Conclusions: An in-hospital infection rate of 2.8% compares favourably with other reported series. Single-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis is as effective as a 48-h regimen. Targeting high-risk groups is effective.