Fundamentals in the Prophylaxis of Septic Surgical Complications

Abstract

An operation in which the colonic/rectal wall is opened represents a destruction of a complicated balance between the patient and his intestinal micro-flora, giving way for infective micro-organisms to become established. The surgeon should try to minimize the number of organisms reaching the operation field and reduce their possibilities of establishment. Some strategical and tactical guide-lines for achieving these goals are given.