Table 1 Guidelines for the duration of antibiotic prophylaxis in cardiac surgery

STS

There is evidence indicating that antibiotic prophylaxis of 48-hours duration is effective. There is some evidence that single-dose prophylaxis or 24-hour prophylaxis may be as effective as 48-hour prophylaxis, but additional studies are necessary before confirming the effectiveness of prophylaxis lasting less than 48 hours. There is no evidence that prophylaxis administered for longer than 48 hours is more effective than a 48-hour regimen.

PEG

The duration is based on consensus of the expert panel because the data do not delineate the optimal duration of prophylaxis. Prophylaxis for 24 hours or less may be appropriate for cardiothoracic procedures.

SIPGWW

The consensus of the workgroup is that administration of prophylaxis for < 24 hours is acceptable and that there is no evidence that providing antimicrobials for longer periods will reduce surgical site infection rates.

ACC/AHA

Data suggest that a 1-day course of intravenous antimicrobials is as efficacious as the traditional 48-hour (or longer) regimen.

ASHP

Prophylaxis for 24 hours or less may be appropriate for cardiothoracic procedures.