Antibiotic Prophylaxis

Against Infective Endocarditis

The guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis have changed many times over the last few years. In 2008, NICE guidelines recommended against the use of antibiotic prophylaxis before invasive dental procedures to prevent infective endocarditis. The practice lacked evidence and raised concerns about adverse reactions. A 2015 review resulted in a change of wording, stating ‘antibiotc prophylaxis against infective endocarditis is not routinely recommended’, leaving the profession with lack of clarity.

This latest guidance presents implementation advice from the Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme (SDCEP) about antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis. It has been developed to assist dental teams to implement dentally relevant recommendations.

The guidance is endorsed by the Royal Surgical Colleges, the British Cardiovascular Society, the Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery, the British Heart Valve Society and the British Congenital Cardiac Association as source of reliable, high-quality professional advice. (taken from the guidance)

Use of this implementation advice is supported by the Chief Dental Officers of Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Links to advice:

https://www.antibioticprophylaxis.sdcep.org.uk/

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg64

https://www.sdcep.org.uk/published-guidance/antibiotic-prophylaxis/