Endocarditis

What is endocarditis?

Endocarditis is infection of the heart. It tends to happen in people who already have a heart problem such as an abnormal valve or hole between the lower chambers of heart. It often occurs after dental procedures or surgery. During such procedures, bacteria are often pushed into the blood. These bacteria then adhere to the area near the abnormal heart valve or hole in the heart and cause an infection of the heart. Although treatable, infections of the heart are difficult to treat and need several weeks of treatment with antibiotics. It may also become necessary to perform heart surgery to remove the infected valve or infected tissue inside the heart.

Can we prevent endocarditis?

"Endocarditis Prophylaxis" is the term used for measures that are taken to prevent endocarditis. These measures involve the administration of antibiotics before the procedure is done.

It is not necessary to use antibiotics before routine activities such as brushing the teeth. It is however extremely important to maintain good oral hygiene, and seek regular dental care. It is very important to prevent development of caries or dental infections in individuals with heart disease. Good oral and dental hygiene is probably the single most important method available for preventing the occurrence of endocarditis.

What kind of antibiotic should be used before dental procedures or surgery?

The American Heart Association has made recommendations regarding the types of antibiotics that should be used and their dosage. These recommendations are summarized in the charts shown below. Contact your family doctor, pediatrician, dentist or pediatric cardiologist to obtain a prescription for the antibiotic to be used before dental work or surgery.

Guidelines for Antibiotic Prophylaxis of Bacterial Endocarditis
(Excerpted from the American Heart Association, JAMA, June 11, 1997 - Vol. 277, No. 22)