Role of Antibiotics to Reduce Infectious Complications in Tube Thoracotomy Management of Traumatic Hemopneumothorax

The Role of Antibiotics in the Reduction of Infectious Complications in Tube Thoracotomy Management of Traumatic Hemopneumothorax: A Prospective, Double-Blinded Study

The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of prophylactic antibiotics in patients with chest tubes for management of thoracic injuries in the reduction of the incidence of empyema as compared to placebo.

In this study, the medication (an antibiotic which is used to treat or prevent infections) will be compared with a placebo. A placebo is something that looks like a "real" medication, but it doesn't contain any active medication. As a participant in this study, you may receive the active medication (Cefazolin Sodium Injection or Clindamycin) or you may receive a placebo.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 16 years of age.
2. Admission to Trauma, General Surgery, and/or Surgical Critical Care services.
3. Traumatic pneumothorax, hemothorax or hemopneumothorax

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy
2. Open fracture
3. Immunocompromised
4. Require antibiotics for treatment of other injuries
5. Chest tube placement greater than 72hrs after admission