Post-operative Antibiotics for 24 hours versus the Duration the Drain is in Place

Full Title of Study

Prospective, Randomized Study of the Use of Post-operative Antibiotics for 24 hours versus the Duration the Drain is in Place in Spinal Surgery (R#08-139)

Purpose of Study

To compare the incidence of acute infection (within 6 months) in patients who have had spine surgery in which a drain was placed and antibiotics were used for 24 hours vs. those for whom antibiotics were continued for the duration of time the drain was in place (commonly 48-72 hours postoperatively)

Basic Inclusion Criteria (requirements for being included in study)

18 years of age or older
Undergoing thoracic and/or lumbar spinal surgery in which a drain is likely to be used

Basic Exclusion Criteria (reasons for being excluded from study)

Current infection
Allergy to Cefazolin, Vancomycin, or Clindamycin
Contraindication to drain use

Study Visit Requirements

Patients are evaluated preoperatively, at the time of surgery, and for the duration of hospitalization.

Principal Investigator

Baron Lonner, MD