Timing of antibiotics for cesarean

OB/GYN News, March 1, 2005 by Thomas Golin

Of course nothing was gained by giving prophylactic antibiotics earlier for cesarean deliveries ("Usual Timing of Antibiotics in Cesarean Delivery is Adequate," Jan. 1, 2005, p. 7). The quoted study compared administration at skin incision with cord clamping. The more relevant comparison is administration 30-60 minutes before incision. This is consistent with the guiding principle that a bactericidal tissue concentration must be achieved and maintained from first incision through the immediate postoperative period.

Thomas Golin, M.D.

Montvale, N.J.

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