Antimicrobial regimens used in the treatment of mandibular fractures in UK maxillofacial units: changes over 12 years.

In the case of most mandibular fractures, the prescription of antimicrobials for more than 24 hours postoperatively confers no clinical benefit. To establish the prescribing patterns for mandibular fractures in UK OMFS units, and to compare them with those used 12 years ago, we did a telephone and email survey of OMFS units in the UK. Antimicrobials were prescribed for more than 24 hours postoperatively by 76 units (65%) (considerably fewer than the 82 (87%) in 2005). The most commonly prescribed first-line antimicrobial was co-amoxiclav (75%). Although there has been some improvement since 2005, most units still prescribe antimicrobials for periods longer than 24 hours. National collaboration may improve their appropriate prescription.