MAUCERI, AA, BRENNAN, R, CARRIZOSA, J, MORALES, JO, SNEAD, H, VONBEHREN, L, PORETZ, DM, KUNKEL, M, WILLIAMS, DN
abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy, safety, and cost effectiveness of a third-generation cephalosporin, cefotaxime, administered via an ambulatory delivery system (ADS) in the treatment of bone and joint infections (BJI). A total of 27 BJI patients enrolled as a subgroup of a multicenter, prospective, open-label trial were administered 1-2 g of cefotaxime every 8 hours using ADS. Of these patients, 18 were evaluable, with the causative organisms identified and susceptible to cefotaxime. The evaluable group comprised 7 primary and 11 postsurgical BJI patients. Inpatient treatment followed by outpatient treatment with cefotaxime/ADS achieved a clinical success rate of 83.3%; however, the mean length of hospital stay for these patients was not substantially reduced. Administration via ADS permitted administration of several daily doses with minimal intervention by the patient. Both the drug and the delivery system were well tolerated. In conclusion, an intravenous antibiotic regimen such as cefotaxime administered via an ADS is an appropriate management option for patients with BJI. It is efficacious, well tolerated, and user friendly.