Microbiology of intraabdominal infection and contamination.

Abstract

The processes involved in the genesis of an intraabdominal infection include bacterial contamination, selection, growth, invasion, localisation, and cure or failure. The four flora of abdominal infection (exogenous, gastric, biliary and faecal) are detailed. The author's choice of antibiotic agents for prophylaxis and treatment, and recommendations concerning the duration of treatment are outlined.