Name of the Procedure:

Prophylactic Antibiotic Infusion Prior to Tourniquet Inflation
Common name(s): Antibiotic Infusion for Surgery
Medical term: Prophylactic Pre-Tourniquet Antibiotic Infusion (HCPCS Code G9301)

Summary

This procedure involves the administration of a full dose of a prophylactic antibiotic through an IV before the inflation of a proximal tourniquet. This method helps prevent infections during surgeries requiring tourniquet use.

Purpose

The goal is to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSI) by ensuring adequate antibiotic levels in the bloodstream before the tourniquet is applied.

Indications

• Patients scheduled for surgeries involving the use of a tourniquet.
• High risk of infection due to existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, immune deficiencies).
• Surgeries involving prosthetic implants.

Preparation

• Patient may need to fast for a few hours prior.
• Pre-surgical assessments including blood tests and allergy checks.
• Reviewing current medication; some may need to be paused or adjusted.

Procedure Description

1. Preoperative Preparation: Ensure all pre-surgical guidelines are followed.
2. IV Line Insertion: Insert an IV line for antibiotic administration.
3. Antibiotic Infusion: Administer the complete dose of the prophylactic antibiotic through the IV line.
4. Tourniquet Placement: Position the proximal tourniquet on the surgical limb.
5. Timing: Allow the antibiotic to be fully infused before inflating the tourniquet.
6. Surgery Commences: Once the tourniquet is inflated and antibiotic fully delivered, the surgery can begin.

Tools and equipment: IV infusion set, prophylactic antibiotic, tourniquet system.
Anesthesia: Depends on the surgery type; could be local, regional, or general anesthesia.

Duration

The infusion itself typically takes 15-30 minutes. Overall preparation may take around 1 hour.

Setting

Performed in a hospital or surgical center as part of the preoperative preparation.

Personnel

• Surgeons
• Operating room nurses
• Anesthesiologists
• Surgical technologists

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reactions to the antibiotic.
• Potential for incorrect dosage or administration times.
• Mild discomfort from IV insertion.

Benefits

• Reduced risk of surgical site infections.
• Faster recovery due to lower infection rates.
• Better overall surgical outcomes.

Recovery

• Post-operative monitoring for any signs of infection.
• Instructions for wound care.
• Scheduled follow-up appointments.
• Generally, patients can resume light activity within a few days, but full recovery depends on the type of surgery performed.

Alternatives

• Administering the antibiotic at different times relative to the surgery, with varying success rates.
• Non-antibiotic infection control measures (e.g., advanced surgical techniques, sterile environments).

Patient Experience

During the procedure: Patient may feel a mild sting from the IV insertion, followed by the infusion of the antibiotic.
After the procedure: Patients are monitored for allergic reactions or complications and will be informed about what to expect in terms of recovery and infection prevention. Proper pain management and comfort measures are taken throughout the surgical process.