AB172. SOH26AB_0187. Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in neurosurgical procedures: elective cranial and spine surgery at a tertiary neurosurgical centre

Surgical site infections (SSIs) represent 13.6% of all healthcare-associated infections in Ireland. Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (ABP) is a key SSI prevention measure. However, excessive or prolonged use offers no added benefit and increases avoidable risks, including adverse drug effects, antimicrobial resistance, and Clostridioides difficile infection. National Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control (AMRIC) data show that 25% of prophylactic antibiotics exceeded 24 hours in 2024, surpassing the target of 22%. This audit aimed to evaluate compliance with local antimicrobial prescribing guidelines for ABP in neurosurgical procedures.