Co-amoxiclav reduces infection after gastrostomy

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is commonly used to ensure enteral nutrition in patients with dysphagia. Results of previous controlled studies of antibiotic prophylaxis in preventing infection, the main complication, have been conflicting. Preclik et al (p 881) conducted a prospective, randomised, double blind, placebo controlled study to determine whether intravenous co-amoxiclav before percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy reduces infectious complications among adults with dysphagia due to cancer or neurological disease. The rate of infection 7 days after the procedure was significantly reduced in the antibiotic group (20% v 65%). The rate of wound infection requiring antibiotics or surgery was 2% in the co-amoxiclav group and 26% in the placebo group.

CiteULike    Complore    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Digg    Reddit    StumbleUpon    Technorati    What's this?

Relevant Article

Prospective, randomised, double blind trial of prophylaxis with single dose of co-amoxiclav before percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

G Preclik, S Grüne, H G Leser, J Lebherz, W Heldwein, K Machka, A Holstege, and W V Kern
BMJ 1999 319: 881. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]