ARE ANTIBIOTICS NECESSARY IN THE SURGICAL-MANAGEMENT OF UPPER-LIMB LACERATIONS

Previous research has shown that antibiotic usage in patients with sup erficial sharp lacerations has no influence over infection rate. This study is a prospective controlled trial, using systematic allocation, of 250 patients of which 113 received co-amoxiclav (Augmentin) and 137 did not. Special emphasis was placed on wound debridement and irrigat ion. All sharp soft tissue lacerations including those with nerve, ten don and muscle damage were entered into the trial. The results show a low overall infection rate of 4%. The infection rate in the group trea ted with antibiotics was 5% and 3.2% in the group who received no anti biotics. Lacerations operated on up to 48 h from the injury were inclu ded and there was no correlation between the length of time waited and the infection rate. We conclude that antibiotics are an unnecessary a djunct in the treatment of sharp lacerations of the hand and upper lim b, provided meticulous surgical debridement is performed.