Antibiotic Use in Abdominal Surgery in Cattle
- In short
- 3-hour e-learning module
- 1 hour of discussion time with teachers
- Literature review on the use of prophylaxis
Responsible use of antibiotics in cattle practice
In abdominal surgeries such as caesarean sections and rumen surgeries, the use of antibiotics is sometimes necessary. But when is prophylaxis truly beneficial? And how do you ensure that you use them as effectively and responsibly as possible?
In this practice-oriented course, you will gain clear, scientifically underpinned guidance on the optimal use of antibiotics in relation to abdominal surgery in cattle. You will learn to make choices that contribute to both animal health and the reduction of antibiotic use in the sector.
Learning goals:
During the course, you will tackle questions that are directly relevant to your daily practice:
- When is the prophylactic use of antibiotics necessary?
- Which antibiotic will be most effective, and why is that the case?
- If I want to use prophylaxis, when should I do so?
- What does the literature say about the prophylactic use of antibiotics?
You will gain an understanding of the underlying principles of antibacterial prophylaxis and learn how to translate these into concrete decisions at the operating table.
Target group
This course is intended for vets involved in surgical procedures on cattle who wish to deepen their knowledge of the responsible use of antibiotics.
Why Choose Continuing Education at Utrecht University
Are you planning to take this course? If so, you are guaranteed a high-quality education at our broad-based, international research university. What’s more, we are the only university in the Netherlands conducting academic research into how professionals learn. You can therefore be assured that our teaching methods are specifically tailored to your needs as a professional.
In our courses for professionals, our academics share their up-to-date knowledge with you. As participants contribute their practical knowledge at the same time, new insights emerge that you, as a professional, can immediately apply in your work. Furthermore, by taking part, you become part of a relevant, professional network.
Our courses and programmes for professionals are designed to be flexible. You can attend our courses on-site or online, often in the evenings so that you can easily combine your studies with your job and personal life.
Contents of the antibiotics module
In this e-module, we will address the following questions:
- When is the prophylactic use of antibiotics necessary?
- Which antibiotic will be most effective, and why?
- If I wish to use prophylaxis, when should I do so?
- What does the literature say about the prophylactic use of antibiotics?
Curriculum
The course combines theory and practice:
- Online preparation: you will complete an e-module (approx. 3 hours) covering the fundamentals and recent insights
- Interactive session: you will discuss case studies and practical questions with tutors and colleagues
This structure ensures that you can immediately apply the material and explore it in greater depth through interaction with experts and peers.
Teacher:
Dr. R. (Ruurd) Jorritsma

Ruurd Jorritsma specialises in teaching pathophysiology and epidemiology in ruminants.
- r.jorritsma@uu.nl
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Teacher:
dr. I.M. van Geijlswijk

Inge van Geijlswijk, PharmD, PhD, is hospital pharmacist-clinical pharmacologist and head of the Pharmacy Department of the UU Faculty Veterinary Medicine.
- 030 253 2066
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