Michael Carter
I am a 70-year-old man living in North East Maine. I have had multiple surgeries for mostly orthopedic issues, with three of the surgeries resulting in full-blown C. diff, caused by antibiotics to prevent infection. Before my last surgery, my physician consulted with the hospital Infectious Disease Committee, who advised that I take Vancomycin for two days pre-op. The result was no C. diff post-op, and we won’t know if this is coincidental or if this approach prevented C. diff again.
I thought this information might be helpful however, Vancomycin is very expensive and my insurance does not cover a lot of the cost. I have another surgery scheduled soon and have requested Flagyl [Metronidazole] which is much less in comparison to Vancomycin, and I have used previously to prevent C. diff.
On another note, I have not been able to see a dental hygienist due to recommendations of previous surgery patients who require antibiotics before any dental work. There are conflicting recommendations about this and I guess if I have to choose the risk of C. diff from antibiotics vs. an infection on a surgical site I will take a chance on the possibility of C. diff.
My experience with preventing C. diff. is I would advise all concerned to have conversations with their doctor(s).
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