Effect of Single-Dose Prophylactic Ampicillin and Sulbactam on Wound Infection After Tension-Free Inguinal Hernia Repair With Polypropylene Mesh

Abstract

This study documented a significant (10-fold) decrease in overall wound infections when single-dose, intravenous AS was used during Lichtenstein hernia repair. Deep infections and wound infection-related readmissions were also reduced by the use of AS. Proponents of mesh repairs may therefore be advised to use prophylactic single-dose intravenous antibiotic coverage in the light of the results of this trial. AS proved to be an effective antimicrobial agent.