Prophylactic Mezlocillin for Transurethral Prostatectomy

In a randomised clinical trial of 100 consecutive patients treated by transurethral prostatectomy, half were given prophylactic intravenous mezlocillin. Blood cultures were obtained, the urine examined and the post-operative progress of each patient was carefully followed. The results were analysed and a high incidence of bacteraemia and septicaemia was found. Single-dose prophylactic mezlocillin was highly effective in preventing this complication. The presentation of septicaemia in mild and severe form is described and the aetiology discussed. Probable risk factors are identified and prophylactic and therapeutic measures described.