A Spanish Survey on the Perioperative Use of Antimicrobials in Small Animals

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Inappropriate use of antimicrobials during surgeries in small animals can lead to the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria, increased costs and disruption of natural microorganisms. To address this issue, a survey was conducted among Spanish veterinarians to evaluate their current practices regarding antimicrobial use in perioperative settings. The survey revealed that a significant proportion of participants administered antimicrobials before and after surgeries, even in cases where they may not be necessary. Factors such as the level of wound contamination, the patient’s weakened immune system and the use of prostheses influenced antimicrobial selection. Moreover, participants without postgraduate training were more likely to misuse antimicrobials. This highlights the need for evidence-based guidelines and education to ensure proper antimicrobial usage, reducing risks and costs while promoting the overall well-being of animals undergoing surgery. ABSTRACT: Appropriate use of perioperative antimicrobials can significantly reduce the risk of post-operative infections. However, inappropriate antimicrobial use can result in the creation of multidrug-resistant bacteria, increased costs, host flora disruption, side effects and increased risk of hospital-acquired infections. This survey evaluated the current perioperative use of antimicrobials in small animals by Spanish veterinarians using a web-based questionnaire. Responses were represented using descriptive statistics and a statistical analysis of the association between demographic data and perioperative antimicrobial use was performed. Pre-operative antimicrobials were administered in clean surgery by up to 68.3% of participants, 81.0% in clean-contaminated surgery and 71.3% in dirty surgery, while in the post-operative period, antimicrobials were administered by up to 86.3% of participants in clean surgery, 93.2% in clean-contaminated surgery and 87.5% in dirty surgery. Factors considered “very important” for antimicrobial selection were the degree of wound contamination, patient immunosuppression and use of prosthesis. The most frequently used antimicrobial was beta-lactamase-resistant (or potentiated) penicillin. Post-operative antimicrobial use was associated with participants without specific surgical postgraduate training. This study highlights an overuse of antimicrobials in perioperative procedures in small animal surgery in Spain. Therefore, evidence-based guidelines and further education regarding the correct use of antimicrobial prophylaxis are recommended.