From the Research
Duration of Antibiotics for Cholecystitis with Image-Guided (IR) Drainage
The duration of antibiotics for cholecystitis with image-guided (IR) drainage is a topic of interest in the medical field. Several studies have investigated this topic, providing insights into the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy.
Study Findings
- A study published in 2022 1 found that a duration of three days or less of antibacterial therapy may be adequate for patients with mild to moderate acute cholecystitis after successful percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage.
- Another study published in 2017 2 suggested that antibiotics may be safely discontinued within one week of uncomplicated percutaneous cholecystostomy.
- The Surgical Infection Society Guidelines for Antibiotic Use in Patients Undergoing Cholecystectomy for Gallbladder Disease, published in 2022 3, recommend a maximum of four days of antibiotic agents, and perhaps a shorter duration in patients undergoing cholecystectomy for severe cholecystitis.
- A systematic review published in 2021 4 found that antibiotic therapy of 3 days may be sufficient after biliary drainage for acute cholangitis.
- A retrospective analysis published in 2020 5 found that treatment of cholecystitis with antibiotic agents, drainage, or analgesic agents is feasible, but it should be regarded as a bridge to surgery rather than a definitive solution.
Key Points
- The optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for cholecystitis with image-guided (IR) drainage is unclear, but studies suggest that short-course therapy (≤3-4 days) may be sufficient.
- The decision to discontinue antibiotics should be based on individual patient factors, such as the severity of the disease and the presence of complications.
- Further studies are needed to determine the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for cholecystitis with image-guided (IR) drainage.