Evidence of preoperative bowel preparation in colorectal surgery and its status in Japan

Abstract

Although the incidence rate of surgical site infection (SSI) after colorectal surgery in Japan has been declining, the rate is still high and needs to be improved. Evidence for preoperative bowel preparation to prevent SSI can be found in guidelines worldwide, including Japan. In summary of the major guidelines, Mechanical Bowel Preparation (MBP) combined with Oral Antibiotics Bowel Preparation (OABP) is recommended, and MBP alone is not recommended. However, in Japan, MBP combined with OABP is used only in a few institutions, and MBP alone is used in many institutions. The compliance rate of the guidelines is low.