Abstract
Infection in arthroplasty surgery is a major complication leading long antibiotic courses and frequently requiring repeated operations to eradicate or suppress. Therefore in the situation of revision surgery on prosthesis that are possibly already infected a clear identification of possible infection is required. Previously frozen section samples have been used in Derriford Hospital in conjunction with clinical presentation and other investigations to aid in diagnosis and tailor management, however recent studies have suggested that this may not be as effective as previously thought. Kanner et al. (2008) suggested a sensitivity of 29% and positive predictive value of 40%.
This retrospective audit reviewed the cases between March 2007 and May 2012, identifying 220 cases of revision surgery where infection was suspected and frozen sections analysis was performed. Results where then compared to paraffin and cultured samples if taken. A notes review was performed to demonstrate if the operative technique (single or two stage) was in line with local guidelines for the results of the frozen section. Long term survival (longest follow up of 7 years) was assessed by need for revision surgery.
