Srp Ark Celok Lek
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Procalcitonin-based therapeutic strategy to reduce antibiotic use in patients after cardiac surgery: a randomized controlled trial.
Procalcitonin (PCT) is a thyroid gland prohormone, and its serum concentration is elevated in systemic bacterial infections. The diagnostic cut-off value of PCT in patients early after cardiac surgery remains unclear. ⋯ Procalcitonin-guided antibiotic treatment is safe and can significantly reduce the cost of postoperative care. Additionally, the antibiotic use during immediate postoperative course should be timely controlled and limited to documented bacterial infections.