Prophylactic antibiotics
The use of prophylactic antibiotics is today the most effective measure how to protect patients with artificial joints against postoperative infection, early or late.
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click on the icon for a full size image The prophylactic antibiotics must be in place already before the bacteria land in the wound. For prevention of the postoperative infection, the antibiotics are usually injected some 30 minutes before the start of the operation. In this way the levels of the antibiotic in the blood will attain concentrations that will kill occasional bacteria that may land in the operation wound. Antibiotics applied after the bacteria get hold on the surface of the artificial joint and produced a protective slime envelope are without effect. |
Studies demonstrated that for prophylaxis against postoperative wound infection, administering antibiotics during only one day after the operation has been equally effective as a two day or longer antibiotic prophylactic regime.
For occasions later on, when you need antibiotic protection during dental surgery and like, usually one dose of antibiotics before the dental and other surgery is sufficient. Ask your surgeon for detailed instructions.
There are also risks connected with the use of antibiotics. One is the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, another is the development of an allergy to antibiotics.
You can diminish these risks yourself: use the antibiotics only when really necessary, and then use them only during the shortest interval possible.