Practice variation in treatment of suspected asymptomatic bacteriuria prior to cardiac surgery: are there differences in postoperative outcome? A retrospective cohort study.

Objectives: It is unclear whether postoperative infections can be prevented by treating asymptomatic bacteriuria, or whether, on the other hand, such treatment will increase the risk of more serious infection by pathogenic bacteria different from the ones causing bacteriuria. This study aimed to support future treatment decisions for preoperative cardiothoracic surgery patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria, by examining current preoperative practice, in relation to postoperative outcome.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted.