Perioperative probiotics may significantly lower infection rates after surgery

A meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials with 2,686 participants revealed that perioperative probiotics and synbiotics are linked to a significant reduction in total postoperative infection rates after elective colorectal surgery. Specifically, the use of these interventions correlated with nearly a 50% decrease in infections within 30 days post-surgery (relative risk 0.55, p < 0.001). Further exploration of optimal treatment regimens and their applicability to current surgical practices is recommended.