A meta-analysis of the effects of preoperative mechanical intestinal preparation and oral antibiotics on surgical site infection after rectal tumor resection.
Updates SurgJun 17, 2026 (epub)
Yue Hu, Jun Feng Ou Yang, Pradeep Narayan Bharti et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis evaluated the impact of preoperative mechanical bowel preparation combined with oral antibiotics on surgical site infections following elective rectal resection. Analyzing data from 8 studies involving 7516 patients, the findings indicated a significant reduction in surgical site infections (RR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.32-0.67, p < 0.0001) and anastomotic fistula incidence (RR = 0.34, p < 0.00001).
Key findings
- Preoperative mechanical bowel preparation with oral antibiotics reduced surgical site infection risk (RR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.32-0.67, p < 0.0001).
- The combination significantly lowered the incidence of anastomotic fistula (RR = 0.34, p < 0.00001).
- The intervention was effective across various subgroups analyzed.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of preoperative interventions in reducing surgical site infections is crucial for improving patient outcomes in elective rectal surgeries. This evidence supports enhanced surgical protocols.