Peri-operative antibiotic cover in amputations using an amoxycillin-clavulanic acid combination
Huizinga, W.K.; Robbs, J.V.; Kritzinger, N.A.
South African Medical Journal 62(5 Spec No): 13a-15a
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 7089807 Document Number: 194711
In a series of 64 patients requiring amputation for lower limb sepsis, the performance of a new antibiotic combination with .beta.-lactamase-inhibiting properties, amoxycillin plus clavulanic acid (A-CA) (Augmentin; Beecham) in the prophylaxis of postoperative wound sepsis , was compared with that of a combination of amoxycillin and ampicillin (A-A) (Suprapen; Bencard) and a control group. The sepsis rate following A-CA prophylaxis (12.9%) was significantly less than in the control group (.chi.2 = 18.49; P < 0.001). Although not attaining statistical significance (.chi.2 = 2.12), A-CA compared favorably with A-A (sepsis rate 35.3%) in the prevention of post-amputation wound sepsis. There was no statistically significant difference in the development of sepsis between wounds closed primarily and those left unsutured while under A-CA cover. Peri-operative antibiotic cover for amputations in septic lower limb lesions is advisable and A-CA is a valuable antibiotic in this situation.