| Methods |
Randomised controlled trial. Randomisation from a masterlist outsite the experimental protocol section.
Triple‐blinded. |
| Participants |
189 eligible patients. 52 patients excluded after randomisation. 136 patients enrolled in the study.
Age‐range: 4‐75, mean 23
The study has 3 subgroups (see Busuttil 1981 A).
In Busuttil 1981 B 91 patients enrolled in the study.
Patients with perforated appendix, allergy to cephalosporins or penicillins, antibiotic therapy within 72 hours before surgery, pregnacy, inability to 30‐ days follow‐up, serious underlying illnes expected to require antibiotic therapy, were excluded before randomisation. |
| Interventions |
Treatment group: Cefamandole 2 g i.v preoperatively, 4 hours postoperatively and every 6 hours thereafter for 24 hours. Children 100‐150 mg/kg/day.
Placebo treatment: Equivalent volume of dilution i.v preoperatively, 4 hours postoperatively and every 6 hours thereafter for 24 hours. |
| Outcomes |
Wound infection (Collection of pus drained spontaneously or by incision).
Length of stay in hospital |
| Notes |
No drain treatment. |
| Risk of bias |
| Bias |
Authors' judgement |
Support for judgement |
| Allocation concealment? |
Low risk |
A ‐ Adequate |
