This rapid response report from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) compares the clinical effectiveness of cefazolin versus other antibiotics for the reduction of postsurgical infection.

It found that the limited evidence suggests the effectiveness of cefazolin for the reduction of postsurgical infection may vary depending upon the type of surgery being performed and the clinical condition being studied.

The Rapid Response Service is an information service for those involved in planning and providing health care in Canada. Rapid responses are based on a limited literature search and are not comprehensive, systematic reviews. The intent is to provide a list of sources and a summary of the best evidence on the topic that CADTH could identify using all reasonable efforts within the time allowed. Rapid responses should be considered along with other types of information and health care considerations