Background: Chloromycetin ointment consists of 10 mg/g of chloramphenicol in plastibase 30W and soft white and liquid paraffin.Chloramphenicol has a broad spectrum of activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, rickettsias, and Chlamydia. Chloramphenicol ointment is indicated for treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis, but little evidence exists for its effectiveness in prophylaxis or treatment of wound infection. Despite this, it is regularly used in areas outside its main indication. Before our study, several of the investigating general practitioners had applied it to sutured wounds as prophylaxis against wound infection. A survey of UK plastic surgeons reported that 66% used chloramphenicol eye ointment in their practice, mainly as prophylaxis against infection. The ointment has been used as an adhesive for replacement of the nail bed.