For optimal antibiotic prophylaxis, when should the infusion ideally end in relation to incision time?

The optimal timing for the end of antibiotic prophylaxis in relation to incision time is to complete the infusion approximately 1 hour before the surgical incision. This timing allows the antibiotic to reach effective tissue concentrations at the site of potential infection, ensuring maximum efficacy in preventing postoperative infections.

Administering the antibiotic too close to the incision—such as just 30 minutes prior—may not provide sufficient time for the drug levels to become adequate in the tissues. In contrast, extending the infusion period to 2 hours or even 1.5 hours may lead to unnecessary drug exposure and potential side effects without significantly enhancing infection prevention. The guideline of one hour before incision strikes a balance between efficacy and safety, making it the most accepted practice in surgical settings for antibiotic prophylaxis.