Complications associated with postoperative antibiotic prophylaxis after breast surgery.

Background: Evidence supports single-dose preoperative antibiotic (ABX) prophylaxis for breast surgery; however, limited data exist regarding the incidence and type of antibiotic complications postoperatively.

Methods: Breast/axillary surgeries between July 2004 and June 2006 were reviewed. Complications were analyzed by antibiotic group: preoperative prophylaxis, postoperative prophylaxis, and therapeutic intent.

Postoperative prophylactic antibiotics and surgical site infection rates in breast surgery patients.

Background: A single preoperative prophylactic dose of an intravenous antibiotic with antistaphylococcal activity is standard of care for breast and axillary surgical procedures. Some surgeons also prescribe postoperative prophylaxis for all patients with drains to prevent infection despite its lack of proven efficacy.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients with breast and/or axillary surgical procedures between July 2004 and June 2006 were included.