USE OF ANTIBIOTIC PROPHYLAXIS IN SURGERY: A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Antibiotic prophylaxis in general surgery is an essential measure for the prevention of surgical site infections, one of the most frequent complications in invasive procedures. The correct administration of prophylactic antibiotics aims to reduce the bacterial load at the time of surgery, protecting the patient from infectious complications that can prolong recovery, increase hospital stay, and raise hospital costs. Objective: To analyze the use of antibiotic prophylaxis in surgery. Literature Review: Controlling surgical site infections plays a fundamental role in preventing one of the most common complications in general surgery. Ban et al. (2017) offered updated guidelines for the prevention of surgical site infections, emphasizing the importance of several measures. First, they highlighted the need for rigorous hand hygiene, both by healthcare professionals and patients, as a crucial step in reducing the risk of infections. Furthermore, adequate antisepsis of the patient's skin before surgery was identified as an effective measure in preventing infections, and the appropriate use of prophylactic antibiotics was also highlighted as a crucial factor in avoiding postoperative complications. Final considerations: It is concluded that the appropriate choice of antibiotic and the precise timing of administration are crucial for efficacy, as are the use of antimicrobial dressings and the maintenance of a sterile operating environment as additional measures to reduce the incidence of surgical site infections. These additional strategies play an important role in infection prevention, complementing other preventive measures.