EP.TH.747Audit of antibiotic prophylaxis in groin hernia repair

Aims To review practice of antibiotic prophylaxis in patients undergoing groin hernia repair against the International guidelines for groin hernia management 2018, in order to improve compliance with International Guidelines. We also assessed the risk category of patients. Methods Retrospective data of all patients undergoing groin hernia repair from November 2019 to March 2020 was collected using hospital software. Data collected included patient demographics, details of hernia repair including; primary/recurrent hernia, emergency/elective, laparoscopic/open repair and use of mesh. The details of antibiotic prophylaxis were recorded. Descriptive statistics was used. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results 67 patients were included, of which 38(57%) were high risk. 62 (92.5%) primary repairs were done, of which 48(72%) were open. 62(92.5%) were operated electively. 46(69%) patients underwent open repair with mesh, 6(9%) had open repair without mesh, while 15(22%) had laparoscopic repair with mesh. A total of 45 (67%) patient received antibiotic prophylaxis. Adherence to International guidelines for groin hernia in open hernia surgery was 82.67%, while that for laparoscopic surgery was 60%. Overall adherence to the Guidelines was 56.67%. Conclusions The audit reflects the need for improved understanding and adherence to the International Guidelines. Data collection of surgical site infection can help inform and influence practice to minimize the risk for surgical site infection and assist in better communication with patients regarding risk. Risk assessment for surgical site infection of patients prior to procedure helps to identify those with indication of antibiotic prophylaxis.