Introduction: It is common practice to use additional antibiotics in bone cement for revision hip surgery. Ideally antibiotic elution would initially be rapid and then reduce to zero in order to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance developing. There is evidence that the addition of antibiotics to bone cement leads to deterioration in mechanical properties. We have carried out a study to see if the addition of vancomycin to Palacos R40G and Smartset GHV affects their in-vitro antibiotic elution and mechanical properties. Methods: Palacos R40G (contains 0.5g gentamycin per 40g mix) and Smartset GHV (contains 1g gentamycin per 40g mix) were used. 40g samples of the two cements with no additional vancomycin, 1g and 2g vancomycin were prepared by a standard method using vacuum mixing in a syringe. Antibiotic elution over a five week period was measured using an immunoassay method. Standard mechanical testing was carried out according to methods defined in ISO 5833. Results: Smartset GHV eluted double the quantity of gentamycin as Palacos R40G, as would be expected. Both cements eluted more gentamycin when vancomycin was added. Smartset appears to elute more vancomycin than Palacos initially and then shows a more rapid tailing off. The mechanical properties of the two cements were the same with no statistical differences found between them. Both showed deterioration in flexural strength with addition of increasing vancomycin. Discussion: Smartset may have improved qualities of antibiotic elution as compared with Palacos with similar mechanical properties. The presence of higher initial quantities of gentamycin does not lead to reduced mechanical properties

Aims. Vancomycin is commonly added to acrylic bone cement during revision arthroplasty surgery. Proprietary cement preparations containing vancomycin are available, but are significantly more expensive. We investigated whether the elution of antibiotic from ‘home-made’ cement containing vancomycin was comparable with more expensive commercially available vancomycin impregnated cement. Materials and Methods. A total of 18 cement discs containing either proprietary CopalG+V; or ‘home-made’ CopalR+G with vancomycin added by hand, were made. Each disc contained the same amount of antibiotic (0.5 g gentamycin, 2 g vancomycin) and was immersed in ammonium acetate buffer in a sealed container. Fluid from each container was sampled at eight time points over a two-week period. The concentrations of gentamicin and vancomycin in the fluid were analysed using high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Results. The highest peak concentrations of antibiotic were observed from the ‘home-made’ cements containing vancomycin, added as in the operating theatre. The overall elution of antibiotic was, fivefold (vancomycin) and twofold (gentamicin) greater from the ‘home-made’ mix compared with the commercially mixed cement. The use of a vacuum during mixing had no significant effect on antibiotic elution in any of the samples. Conclusion. These findings suggest that the addition of 2 g vancomycin powder to gentamicin-impregnated bone cement by hand significantly increases the elution of both antibiotics compared with commercially prepared cements containing vancomycin. We found no significant advantages of using expensive commercially produced vancomycin-impregnated cement and recommend the addition of vancomycin powder by hand in the operating theatre. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:73–7

Bone cements produced by different manufacturers vary in their mechanical properties and antibiotic elution characteristics. Small changes in the formulation of a bone cement, which may not be apparent to surgeons, can also affect these properties. The supplier of Palacos bone cement with added gentamicin changed in 2005. We carried out a study to examine the mechanical characteristics and antibiotic elution of Schering-Plough Palacos, Heraeus Palacos and Depuy CMW Smartset bone cements. Both Heraeus Palacos and Smartset bone cements performed significantly better than Schering-Plough Palacos in terms of mechanical characteristics, with and without additional vancomycin (p < 0.001). All cements show a deterioration in flexural strength with increasing addition of vancomycin, albeit staying above ISO minimum levels. Both Heraeus Palacos and Smartset elute significantly more gentamicin cumulatively than Schering-Plough Palacos. Smartset elutes significantly more vancomycin cumulatively than Heraeus Palacos. The improved antibiotic elution characteristics of Smartset and Heraeus Palacos are not associated with a deterioration in mechanical properties. Although marketed as the ‘original’ Palacos, Heraeus Palacos has significantly altered mechanical and antibiotic elution characteristics compared with the most commonly-used previous version

Objectives. The objective of this study was to determine if combining variations in mixing technique of antibiotic-impregnated polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement with low frequency ultrasound (LFUS) improves antibiotic elution during the initial high phase (Phase I) and subsequent low phase (Phase II) while not diminishing mechanical strength. Methods. Three batches of vancomycin-loaded PMMA were prepared with different mixing techniques: a standard technique; a delayed technique; and a control without antibiotic. Daily elution samples were analysed using flow injection analysis (FIA). Beginning in Phase II, samples from each mix group were selected randomly to undergo either five, 15, 45, or 0 minutes of LFUS treatment. Elution amounts between LFUS treatments were analysed. Following Phase II, compression testing was done to quantify strength. A-priorit-tests and univariate ANOVAs were used to compare elution and mechanical test results between the two mix groups and the control group. Results. The delayed technique showed a significant increase in elution on day one compared with the standard mix technique (p < 0.001). The transition point from Phase I to Phase II occurred on day ten. LFUS treatments significantly increased elution amounts for all groups above control. Delayed technique resulted in significantly higher elution amounts for the five-minute- (p = 0.004) and 45-minute- (p < 0.001) duration groups compared with standard technique. Additionally, the correlations between LFUS duration and total elution amount for both mix techniques were significant (p = 0.03). Both antibiotic-impregnated groups exhibited a significant decrease in offset yield stress compared with the control group (p < 0.001), however, their lower 95% confidence intervals were all above the 70 MPa limit defined by International Standards Organization (ISO) 5833-2 reference standard for acrylic bone cement. Conclusion. The combination of a delayed mix technique with LFUS treatments provides a reasonable means for increasing both short- and long-term antibiotic elution without affecting mechanical strength. Cite this article: Dr. T. McIff. Combination of modified mixing technique and low frequency ultrasound to control the elution profile of vancomycin-loaded acrylic bone cement. Bone Joint Res 2016;5:26–32. doi: 10.1302/2046-3758.52.2000412

Aims. There is a lack of biomaterial-based carriers for the local delivery of rifampicin (RIF), one of the cornerstone second defence antibiotics for bone infections. RIF is also known for causing rapid development of antibiotic resistance when given as monotherapy. This in vitro study evaluated a clinically used biphasic calcium sulphate/hydroxyapatite (CaS/HA) biomaterial as a carrier for dual delivery of RIF with vancomycin (VAN) or gentamicin (GEN). Methods. The CaS/HA composites containing RIF/GEN/VAN, either alone or in combination, were first prepared and their injectability, setting time, and antibiotic elution profiles were assessed. Using a continuous disk diffusion assay, the antibacterial behaviour of the material was tested on both planktonic and biofilm-embedded forms of standard and clinical strains of Staphylococcus aureus for 28 days. Development of bacterial resistance to RIF was determined by exposing the biofilm-embedded bacteria continuously to released fractions of antibiotics from CaS/HA-antibiotic composites. Results. Following the addition of RIF to CaS/HA-VAN/GEN, adequate injectability and setting of the CaS/HA composites were noted. Sustained release of RIF above the minimum inhibitory concentrations of S. aureus was observed until study endpoint (day 35). Only combinations of CaS/HA-VAN/GEN + RIF exhibited antibacterial and antibiofilm effects yielding no viable bacteria at study endpoint. The S. aureus strains developed resistance to RIF when biofilms were subjected to CaS/HA-RIF alone but not with CaS/HA-VAN/GEN + RIF. Conclusion. Our in vitro results indicate that biphasic CaS/HA loaded with VAN or GEN could be used as a carrier for RIF for local delivery in clinically demanding bone infections. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(11):787–802

Objectives. Investigate the incorporation of an antibiotic in bone cement using liposomes (a drug delivery system) with the potential to promote osseointegration at the bone cement interface whilst maintaining antibiotic elution, anti-microbiological efficacy and cement mechanical properties. Prosthetic joint infection and aseptic loosening are associated with significant morbidity. Antibiotic loaded bone cement is commonly used and successfully reduces infection rates; however, there is increasing resistance to the commonly used gentamicin. Previous studies have shown gentamicin incorporated into bone cement using liposomes can maintain the cement's mechanical properties and improve antibiotic elution. The phospholipid phosphatidyl-l-serine has been postulated to encourage surface osteoblast attachment and in a liposome could improve osseointegration, thereby reducing aseptic loosening. Preliminary clinical isolate testing showed excellent antimicrobial action with amoxicillin therefore the study aims were to test amoxicillin incorporated into bone cement using liposomes containing phosphatidyl-l-serine in terms of antibiotic elution, microbiological profile and mechanical properties. Methods. Amoxicillin was encapsulated within 100nm liposomes containing phosphatidyl-L-serine and added to PMMA bone cement (Palacos R (Heraeus Medical, Newbury, UK)). Mechanical testing was performed according to Acrylic Cement standards (ISO BS 5833:2002). Elution testing was carried out along with microbiological testing utilising clinical isolates. Results. Liposomal encapsulated amoxicillin PMMA bone cement exceeded minimum ISO BS 5833:2002 standards, had better elution at 12.9% when compared with plain amoxicillin (p=0.036 at 48 hours) or commercial gentamicin cement (Palacos R+G, Heraeus Medical, Newbury, UK – previous studies showed 6% elution over the same time period). Amoxicillin showed superior antimicrobial action when compared with gentamicin of the same concentration. However, liposomal encapsulated amoxicillin in solution and liposomal encapsulated amoxicillin in PMMA were both less effective than free amoxicillin in bacterial growth inhibition. The liposomal amoxicillin also seemed to decrease the cement setting time. Conclusions. Phosphatidyl-l-serine containing liposomes maintained the cement's mechanical properties and seemed to have better antibiotic elution, however, had less effective antibacterial action than plain amoxicillin. This difference in antibacterial action requires further investigation along with investigation of osteoblast attachment to phosphatidyl-l-serine containing liposomes within cement. Plain amoxicillin, for those not penicillin allergic, seems to be a credible alternative to gentamicin for incorporation in PMMA bone cement. It has shown superior antibacterial action, which may improve infection rates, whilst maintaining the cement's mechanical properties

Background. Additive manufacturing (AM) has created many new avenues for material and manufacturing innovation. In orthopaedics, metal additive manufacturing is now widely used for production of joint replacements, spinal fusion devices, and cranial maxillofacial reconstruction. Plastic additive manufacturing on the other hand, has mostly been utilized for pre-surgical planning models and surgical cutting guides. The addition of pharmaceuticals to additively manufactured plastics is novel, particularly when done at the raw material level. The purpose of this study was to prove the concept of antibiotic elution from additively manufactured polymeric articles and demonstrate feasibility of application in orthopaedics. Methods. Using patented processes, three heat-stable antibiotics commonly used in orthopaedics were combined with six biocompatible polymers (2 bioresorbable) into filament and powder base materials for fused deposition modeling (FDM) and selective laser sintering (SLS) AM processes. Raw materials of 1%, 2%, and 5% antibiotic concentrations (by mass) were produced as well as a blend of all three antibiotics each at 1% concentration. Thin disks of 25 mm diameter were manufactured of each polymer with each antibiotic at all concentrations. Disks were applied to the center of circular petri dishes inoculated with a bacterium as per a standard zone of inhibition, or Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion tests. After 72 hours incubation, the zone of inhibited bacterial growth was measured. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of the knee was selected as the proof-of-concept application in orthopaedics. A series of tibial inserts mimicking those of a common TKR system were manufactured via SLS using a bioresorbable base material (Figure 1). Three prototype inserts were tested on a knee wear simulator for 333,000 cycles following ISO 14242–1:2014 to approximate 2–4 months of in vivo use between surgeries of a 2-stage procedure for PJI. Gravimetric measurement and visual damage assessment was performed. Results. Bacterial growth was inhibited to a mean diameter of 32.3 mm (FDM) and 42.2 mm (SLS) for nearly all combinations of polymers and concentrations of antibiotics. Prototype tibial inserts experienced an average of 200 mg of wear during testing and demonstrated no evidence of cracking, delamination or significant deformation (Figure 2). Conclusion. Bench-level testing of these novel antibiotic-eluting polymers demonstrates feasibility for their application in orthopaedic medicine. In particular, treatment of stubborn PJI with potential for increased and sustained antibiotic elution, patient-specific cocktailing, and maintenance of knee joint structure and function compared to existing PJI products and practices. Subsequent testing for these novel polymers will determine static and dynamic (wear-induced) antibiotic elution rates. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly

Aims. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based bone cements are the industry standard in orthopaedics. PMMA cement has inherent disadvantages, which has led to the development and evaluation of a novel silorane-based biomaterial (SBB) for use as an orthopaedic cement. In this study we test both elution and mechanical properties of both PMMA and SBB, with and without antibiotic loading. Methods. For each cement (PMMA or SBB), three formulations were prepared (rifampin-added, vancomycin-added, and control) and made into pellets (6 mm × 12 mm) for testing. Antibiotic elution into phosphate-buffered saline was measured over 14 days. Compressive strength and modulus of all cement pellets were tested over 14 days. Results. The SBB cement was able to deliver rifampin over 14 days, while PMMA was unable to do so. SBB released more vancomycin overall than did PMMA. The mechanical properties of PMMA were significantly reduced upon rifampin incorporation, while there was no effect to the SBB cement. Vancomycin incorporation had no effect on the strength of either cement. Conclusion. SBB was found to be superior in terms of rifampin and vancomycin elution. Additionally, the incorporation of these antibiotics into SBB did not reduce the strength of the resultant SBB cement composite whereas rifampin substantially attenuates the strength of PMMA. Thus, SBB emerges as a potential weight-bearing alternative to PMMA for the local delivery of antibiotics. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(4):277–284

Introduction. Vancomycin is commonly added to acrylic bone cement during revision arthroplasty surgery. Proprietary cement preparations containing vancomycin are available but significantly more expensive. We investigated whether the antibiotic elution and mechanical strength of ‘home-made’ vancomycin containing bone cement was comparable to commercial vancomycin-impregnated cement. Methods. A total of 18 cement discs of constant size, containing either proprietary CopalG+V. ®. ; or ‘home-made’ CopalR+G. ®. with vancomycin added by hand, were made. Each disc contained the same antibiotic quantities (0.5g gentamycin, 2g vancomycin) and was immersed in ammonium acetate buffer in a sealed container. Fluid from each container was sampled at eight time points over a two week period. The concentration of gentamicin and vancomycin in the fluid was analysed using high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. The impact strength of each PMMA cement preparation was measured using a Charpy-type impact tester. Results. Highest peak antibiotic concentrations were observed from the ‘home-made’ vancomycin containing cement, added as in the operating theatre. Overall antibiotic elution was, five-fold (vancomycin) and two-fold (gentamicin), greater from the ‘home-made’ mix compared to commercially mixed cement. However the ‘home-made’ cements showed greater variation in elution kinetics compared to the commercial mix. Use of a vacuum during mixing had no significant effect on antibiotic elution in any of the samples. Impact strength testing showed no significant differences between the groups. Discussion. Our findings suggest the addition of 2g vancomycin powder to gentamicin-impregnated bone cement in theatre, significantly increases elution of both antibiotics, with no significant loss of strength, compared to commercially prepared cement. Conclusion. We have found no significant advantages of expensive off-the-shelf vancomycin-impregnated bone cement and recommend the addition of vancomycin powder by hand when making cement beads and spacers

Introduction: Bone cements produced by different manufacturers vary in their mechanical properties and antibiotic elution characteristics. Small changes in the formulation of a bone cement, which may not be apparent to surgeons, may also affect these properties. The manufacturing method of Palacos bone cement with added gentamicin has recently changed. We have carried out a study to examine the mechanical characteristics and antibiotic elution of Schering-Plough Palacos (‘old’ version), Heraeus Palacos (‘new’ version) and Depuy CMW Smartset bone cements. Methods: Schering-Plough Palacos R40G (contains 0.5g gentamicin per 40g mix), Heraeus Palacos R+G (contains 0.5g gentamicin per 40g mix) and Depuy-CMW Smartset GHV (contains 1g gentamicin per 40g mix) were used. 40g samples of the three cements with no additional vancomycin, 1g and 2g vancomycin were prepared by a standard method using vacuum mixing in a syringe. Antibiotic elution over a five week period was measured using an immunoassay method. Standard mechanical testing was carried out according to methods defined in ISO 5833. Results: Both Heraeus Palacos and Smartset bone cements performed significantly better than Schering-Plough Palacos in terms of mechanical characteristics both with and without additional antibiotics. All cements show a deterioration in flexural strength with increasing addition of vancomycin although staying above ISO minimum levels. Both Heraeus Palacos and Smartset elute significantly more gentamicin cumulatively than Schering-Plough Palacos. Smartset elutes significantly more vancomycin cumulatively compared with Heraeus Palacos. Discussion: Both Heraeus Palacos and Smartset Bone cements elute significantly more gentamicin than Schering-Plough Palacos with no deterioration in mechanical characteristics. Smartset also elutes significantly more vancomycin than Heraeus Palacos without adverse affect on mechanical characteristics. Although marketed as the ‘original’ Palacos, Heraeus Palacos has significantly altered mechanical and antibiotic elution characteristics compared with previous versions

Intro. Calcium sulphate (CS) is a recent alternative for antibiotic elution in infected bones and joints. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of antibiotic impregnated calcium sulphate (AICS) beads in the management of infected tibia and femur, with regards to patient outcomes and complication rates (including reinfection rate, remission rate and union rate). Methods. Searches of AMED, CINAHL, EMBASE, EMCARE, Medline, PubMed and Google Scholar were conducted in June 2020, with the mesh terms: “Calcium sulphate beads” or “Calcium sulfate beads” or “antibiotic beads” or “Stimulan” AND “Bone infection” or “Osteomyelitis” or “Debridement” AND “Tibia” or “Femur”. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias in Non-randomised Studies of interventions (ROBINS-i) tool, and quality assessed via the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Results. Out of 105 relevant papers, 11 met the inclusion criteria for data extraction. Total infection recurrence rate was 6.8% (range 3.2 – 11.9%, n = 295), which was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than that of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA; 19.6%, n = 163). Complication rates varied. The main issue regarding AICS use was wound drainage (7.9 – 33.3%), which was considerably higher in studies involving treatment of the tibia only. Studies using PMMA did not experience this issue, but there were a few incidences of superficial pin tract infection following surgery. Conclusions. AICS was consistently effective at infection eradication, despite variation in causative organism and location of bead placement. Additionally, PMMA has many inconvenient properties. AICS is therefore an attractive alternative as an adjunct in treatment of infected tibia and femur. Wound drainage rate varied and was higher in studies regarding tibial cases alone

Antibiotic-loaded PMMA spacers are used with increased frequency in two-stage revision arthroplasty. The release of aminoglycosides and vancomycin, the most commonly used antibiotics, is prompt, and concentrations are inhibitory. The release kinetic from PMMA bone cement shows a biphasic profile, consisting in an initially high and rapid drug release followed by a slower but sustained phase. However, this general profile of drug release kinetics from PMMA spacers in vitro may have great variability in terms of drug amount, modality, and duration of elution. Initial drug concentration, cement surface area and porosity are essential and well-known factors in determining the drug release. Moreover, viscosity, vacuum-preparation and the different technical characteristics of commercially available spacers are additional factors of variability. Industrial preformed spacers are considered superior to custom-made devices because of uniform mixing and standardized procedures. Spacers produced by different manufacturers vary in their mechanical properties and antibiotic elution characteristics. Small changes in the formulation of a bone cement can also affect these properties. Similar bone cements produced by various brands release different amount of drugs. Gentamicin diffuses from Palacos in a larger amount and for a longer period than from Simplex and CMV. Spacers produced in France (Synicem™) and in Argentina (Subiton™) elute less total amount of gentamicin than those produced in Italy (Spacer G™) and show a delayed peak drug release. The low initial release of antibiotic can contribute to unsatisfactory antimicrobial effect and to the risk of selection of resistant bacteria. Some spacers release gentamicin for longtime (months), while others release antibiotic for only two weeks. In the last years an evolution of PMMA spacers production occurred and modifications in the polimerization process of cement can increase cement porosity and antibiotic elution from spacers. The current commercial preformed spacers for 10 days elution (Spacer G™, prepared with Cemex HP) release more gentamicin (34.1 mg) than previous models, which were prepared with Cemex SP (16.4 mg). Furthermore, they maintain a high elution rate (1.4–1.6 mg/day after one month). The combination of Gentamicin and Vancomycin mantains an elution pharmacokinetic profile that is superimposable to that of Gentamicin and Vancomycin alone, with synergistic effects against multiresistant bacteria in prosthetic infection site. In conclusion, the antibiotic release from PMMA spacers of various brands is not equivalent. The old elution data are no longer valid for new preparations. Consequently, this additional factor of variability should be considered in clinical practice and literature data utilisation

Aim. The preparation of antibiotic-containing polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), as spacers generates a high polymerization heat, which may affect their antibiotic activity; it is desirable to use bone cement with a low polymerization heat. Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) does not generate heat on polymerization, and comparative elution testings are reported that vancomycin (VCM)-containing CPC (VCM-CPC) exceeded the antibiotic elution volume and period of PMMA (VCM-PMMA). Although CPC alone is a weak of mechanical property spacer, the double-layered, PMMA-covered CPC spacer has been created and clinically used in our hospital. In this study, we prepared the double-layered spacers: CPC covered with PMMA and we evaluated its elution concentration, antimicrobial activity and antibacterial capability. Method. We prepared spherical, double-layered, PMMA-coated (CPC+PMMA; 24 g CPC coated with 16 g PMMA and 2 g VCM) and PMMA alone (40 g PMMA with 2 g VCM) spacers (5 each). In order to facilitate VCM elution from the central CPC, we drilled multiple holes into the CPC from the spacer surface. Each spacer was immersed in phosphate buffer (1.5 mL/g of the spacer), and the solvent was changed daily. VCM concentrations were measured on days 1, 3, 7, 14, 28, 56, and 84. Antimicrobial activity against MRSA and MSSA was evaluated by the broth microdilution method. After measuring all the concentration, the spacers were compressed at 5 mm/min and the maximum compressive load up to destruction was measured. Results. The VCM concentration of the CPC+PMMA spacer exceeded that of the PMMA spacer at all-time points; in particular, it was approximately 7.3 times (109.30 vs. 15.03 μg/mL) and approximately 9.1 times (54.47 vs. 6.50 μg/mL) greater on days 14 and 28, respectively. Using the broth microdilution method, we found that the CPC+PMMA spacer had higher antimicrobial activity than the PMMA model. On day 56, the PMMA spacer lost the capability to inhibit bacterial growth, but the CPC+PMMA spacer maintained this ability. The average maximum compressive load for the CPC+PMMA was 7.28 kN, and that of PMMA was 16.21 kN. Conclusions. The CPC+PMMA spacer was superior to PMMA alone in VCM elution volume and duration, so CP- C+PMMA may be effective for the treatment of MRSA and MSSA infection. The double-layered, antibiotic-loaded cement spacer may maintain antibacterial capability and sufficient strength

In bone and joint infections, several materials can be used for local antibiotic elution at site of infection. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement is often used. Recently the use of antibiotic impregnated dissolvable synthetic pure calcium sulphate beads [Stimulan R]1 has been used as an alternative, due to several perceived advantages. We present our experience of using Calcium sulphate beads in infections involving the upper limb. From Jan 2012 to Jan 2015, we used Calcium sulphate beads in 7 complex upper limb infections including 1 elbow replacement, 2 infected non unions, 2 shoulder replacement, 1 wrist fusion and I ORIF elbow. We used combination of Vancomycin and Gentamicin in the beads, using manufacturer's mixing guide for optimum setting. Arthroplasty infections underwent explantation, addition of antibiotic impregnated calcium sulphate beads in the joint space, followed by a second stage, and systemic antibiotics. Fracture non-union cases had surgical debridement, calcium sulphate beads and systemic antibiotics. Follow up (6months to 2 years) indicate no recurrence of infection in any case. The most common organisms isolated were Coagulase negative staphylococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. Others included Group B Streptococcus, Serratia marscesens and Corynebacterium spp. In 2 of 7 cases there was significant drainage from the wound. This settled without further input. For fracture non-union fixation, there was no need to do second procedure to remove beads as they dissolve. In cases of staged revisions, the beads were inserted at first stage with microbiological clearance at 2nd stage. At present there are no reports in the literature of the use of this product in the upper limb. Our experience suggests use of dissolvable pure Calcium sulphate beads impregnated with selected antibiotics, is an effective adjunct to current treatments. Aseptic drainage has been reported and this was seen in some of our cases. It is postulated that the use of Calcium sulphate beads in more superficial joints may lead to more drainage. It may be necessary to avoid packing any beads in the subcutaneous spaces and using lower volumes in upper limb. Further work will include long-term follow up and any evidence of relapse or recurrence of infection

The management of chronic osteomyelitis is fraught with difficulties; a multi-disciplinary team approach is recommended for optimum outcome. Thorough debridement, dead space management and organism targeted antibiotic therapy the gives best clinical results. Calcium sulphate beads impregnated with antibiotic is an absorbable option for prolonged local antibiotic elution and dead space management. This study aims to analyse the early results of single stage management of osteomyelitis with antibiotic impregnated calcium sulphate beads. Following surgical debridement, calcium sulphate impregnated typically with tobramycin and/or vancomycin is inserted to obliterate the dead space. Intravenous antibiotics – typically teicoplanin and piperacillin-tazobactam – are administered until culture results permit rationalisation to narrow spectrum agents. Patients are followed up in Infectious Diseases and Orthopaedic clinics for a period of 12 months and discharged if quiescence is achieved. We conducted a retrospective analysis of our prospective database to identify patients treated with our single stage protocol for chronic osteomyelitis. We excluded patients that had (1) less than 6 months of follow up, (2) incomplete metal-ware removal, (3) patients lost to follow up. Fourteen patients (9 men, 5 women) with mean age of 41 (16–73) years and mean follow up of 9 (6–12) months were included in study. Eleven patients had previous surgeries involving internal fixation; the rest were primary osteomyelitis. Seven patients had washouts and removal of metal-ware procedures for osteomyelitis prior to referral to the bone infection service. Clinical, radiographic, and laboratory (microbiological, biochemical and haematological) methods were used to monitor response to treatment. Cierney-Mader classification determined that 8 patients were classed as type A (normal hosts); 4 as BS (systemically compromised); 2 as BLS (locally and systemically compromised). Anatomic analysis suggested 7 were Type 1 (medullary osteomyelitis); the remaining 7 were type 3 (localised disease). Five patients were staged IA; three each staged IIIA and IIIBS; and one each staged IBs, IBLS, IIIBLS. Staphylococcus Aureus was the commonest causative organism. Follow up radiograph monitoring indicated absorption of the beads by 3 months. There has been no evidence of recurrence based on clinical, radiographic and blood based parameters in all patients. Short-term results of single stage osteomyelitis treatment with calcium sulphate beads impregnated with antibiotics are promising

The two-staged exchange for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has become the “gold standard” worldwide. Based on the first implementation of mixing antibiotics into bone cement by Prof. Buchholz in the 1970s, the ENDO-Klinik followed a distinct one staged exchange for PJI in over 85 % of all our infected cases until today. Looking carefully at current literature and guidelines for the PJI treatment, there is no clear evidence, that a two-staged procedure has a clearly higher success rate than a one-staged approach. Although postulated in relevant articles, most recommendations, e.g. duration of antibiotics, static vs. mobile spacer, interval of spacer retention, cemented vs. uncemented implant fixation, are based on Level IV to III evidence studies or expert opinions, rather than on prospective randomised or comparative data. Potentially a cemented one-stage exchange offers certain advantages, as mainly based on need for only one operative procedure, reduced antibiotics & hospitalization time and reduced relative overall costs. In order to fulfill a one-staged approach with the above described potential success, there are obligatory pre-, peri- and postoperative details, which need to be meticulously respected. The absolute mandatory infrastructural requirement is based on the clear evidence of the bacteria in combination with a distinct patient specific plan, by an experienced microbiologist, for following topical antibiotics in the bone cement with combined systemic antibiotics. Mandatory preoperative diagnostic testing is based on the joint aspiration with an exact identification of the bacteria. The presence of a positive bacterial culture and respective antibiogramm is essential, to specify the antibiotics loaded into the bone cement, which allows a high topical antibiotic elution directly at the surgical site. A specific treatment plan is generated by a microbiologist. Contraindications for a one-staged exchange include: failure of >2 previous one-staged procedures, infection spreading to the nerve-vessel bundle, unclear preoperative bacteria specification, unavailability of appropriate antibiotics, high antibiotic resistance. The surgical success relies not only on the complete removal of all preexisting hardware material (including cement and restrictors), furthermore an aggressive and complete debridement of any infected soft tissues and bone material is needed. Mixing antibiotics into the cement needs to fulfill the following criteria: Appropriate antibiogramm, adequate elution characteristics, bactericidal (exception clindamycin), powder form (never use liquid AB), maximum addition of 10 %/PMMA powder. Current principles of modern cementing techniques should be applied. Postoperative systemic antibiotic administration is usually followed for only 10–14 days (exception: streptococci). We recommend an early and aggressive mobilization within the first 8 days postoperatively, due to the cemented fixation an immediate mobilization under full weight bearing becomes possible in most cases. Persistence or recurrence of infection remains the most relevant complication in the one-staged technique. As failure rates with a two-staged exchange have been described between 9% and 20% in non-resistant bacteria, the ENDO-Klinik data shows comparative results after 8–10 years of follow up. In summary a cemented one-stage exchange offers various advantages. Mainly the need for only one operation, shorter hospitalization, reduced systemic antibiotics, lower overall cost and relative high patient satisfaction. However, a well-defined preoperative planning regime including an experienced microbiologist is absolutely mandatory

Purpose: This study investigates the synergistic use of fusidic acid with vancomycin, and linezolid in poly-methylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement for the treatment of orthopedic MRSA and MRSE infections. Alone, Vancomycin is typically eluted in limited quantities from cement. The purpose of this study was to. combine FA and Vancomycin, and Linezolid alone in PMMA cement and characterize antibiotic elution, and. to improve drug release using polyethylene glycol (PEG) and NaCl in PMMA cement. Method: Standardized 1g pellets of Palacos cement were manufactured containing Vancomycin and FA or Linezolid at increasing concentrations in three batches: without additive, with increasing concentrations of PEG, and with increasing concentrations of NaCl. The pellets were incubated in phosphate buffered saline and sampled at regular intervals. Drug analysis was performed with high pressure liquid chromatograpy. Results: Total drug release at 2.5% loading of Vancomycin alone was 0.84% and of FA was 2.35%. Linezolid showed comparable release profiles. Vancomycin and FA combined yeilded Vancomycin release of 6.2% and FA of 8.4%. The addition of 30% PEG increased release of Vancomycin and Fusidic Acid by six-fold. The addition of 18% NaCl increased total Vancomycin release by 11-fold but had no effect on FA release. Conclusion: Linezolid, Vancomycin and FA can be combined in PMMA and have favorable release profiles. The addition of PEG and NaCl dramatically increases the release of antibiotics, with the exception of FA and NaCl. These strategies may be useful in the management of MRSA/MRSE infections

The burden of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) continues to rise and the management of this dreaded complication continues to pose challenges to the orthopaedic community. Dr Buchholz from the Endo Klinik has been credited for reporting the initial observation that addition of antibiotic to polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement lead to better ability to deliver higher concentrations of antibiotic to the joint milieu and avoid administration of high doses of systemic antibiotics with potential for systemic toxicity. Addition of antibiotics to PMMA cement has continued to be an important aspect of managing patients with chronic PJI. The rationale for this practice is that higher doses of local antibiotics can be reached without placing the patients at risk of systemic toxicity. Whether a one-stage or a two-stage exchange arthroplasty is being performed, antibiotics that can withstand the exothermic reaction of PMMA and are able to elude from cement are added at various doses to the PMMA for later delivery. Although this practice continues to be almost universal, there are a few unknowns. First of all, a recent study raised a valid question regarding this practice. Though intuitively logical, addition of antibiotics to PMMA spacers has not been scrutinised by any level 1 study and hence one is not able to prove that this practice does indeed accomplish its intended objectives of reducing recurrence or persistence of infection. Orthopaedic community is advised to seek avenues to generate this much-needed evidence. The other main unknown is how much, and in some instances which antibiotic, needs to be added to the PMMA cement. Some authorities have declared that antibiotics can be added at high doses, with an average total dose of 10.5 g of vancomycin (range, 3–16 g) and 12.5 g of gentamicin (range, 3.6–19.2 g) in one study, to PMMA cement without the fear of systemic toxicity. In recent years, renal toxicity and other systemic adverse effects have been attributed to addition of high doses of antibiotics to cement. I have personally witnessed such adverse reactions in a few patients. Although initially I was inclined to “blame” the concurrent administration of systemic antibiotics for the renal toxicity that patients developed following insertion of spacer, selective nephrotoxicity (i.e. reaction to aminoglycoside that was only present in the spacer and not systemically administered) and resolution of the nephrotoxicity upon removal of antibiotic spacer, convinced me that our nephrology colleagues have a valid reason to be concerned about addition of high doses of antibiotics to PMMA spacers. What has become clear is that high viscosity cements containing MA-MMA copolymers have been shown to have better antibiotic elution profiles than other PMMA formulations. So when fashioning a spacer in the operating room the surgeon needs to be aware of the differences in elution profile of antibiotics from PMMA and individualise the dose of antibiotics being added to spacer based on the type and viscosity of cement being used and the renal status of the patient. Thus, systemic toxicity caused by addition of antibiotics to cement spacer appears to be a real issue in some circumstances and this needs to be born in mind when managing patients with PJI. There are numerous other issues related to the use of antibiotic cement spacers. In the hip, the lack of adequate offset and limited portfolio of products result in laxity in the soft tissue and subsequent dislocation of the hip. In addition, the dose and type of antibiotic in the premanufactured spacers, at least in the US, are inadequate to lead to a substantial delivery of antibiotics in the local tissues. Because of these issues, I prefer to fabricate “customised” spacers for each patient that I operate on

The two-staged exchange for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has become the “gold standard” worldwide. Based on the first implementation of mixing antibiotics into bone cement by Prof. Buchholz in the 70's, the ENDO-Klinik followed a distinct one-staged exchange for PJI in over 85% of all our infected cases until today. Looking carefully at current literature and guidelines for the PJI treatment, there is no clear evidence, that a two-staged procedure has a clearly higher success rate than a one-staged approach. Although postulated in relevant articles, most recommendations, e.g. duration of antibiotics, static vs. mobile spacer, interval of spacer retention, cemented vs. uncemented implant fixation, are based on level IV to III evidence studies or expert opinions, rather than on prospective randomised or comparative data. Potentially a cemented one-stage exchange offers certain advantages, as mainly based on need for only one operative procedure, reduced antibiotics & hospitalization time and reduced relative overall costs. In order to fulfill a one-staged approach with the above described potential success, there are obligatory pre-, peri- and post-operative details, which need to be meticulously respected. The absolute mandatory infrastructural requirement is based on the clear evidence of the bacteria in combination with a distinct patient specific plan, by an experienced microbiologist, for the topical antibiotics in the bone cement with combined systemic antibiotics. Mandatory pre-operative diagnostic testing is based on the joint aspiration with an exact identification of the bacteria. The presence of a positive bacterial culture and respective antibiogramm is essential, to specify the antibiotics loaded to the bone cement, which allows a high topical antibiotic elution directly at the surgical site. A specific treatment plan is generated by a microbiologist. Contraindications for a one-staged exchange include: failure of > 2 previous one-staged procedures, infection spreading to the nerve-vessel bundle, unclear pre-operative bacteria specification, unavailability of appropriate antibiotics, high antibiotic resistance. The surgical success relies not only on the complete removal of all preexisting hardware material (including cement and restrictors), furthermore an aggressive and complete debridement of any infected soft tissues and bone material is needed. Mixing antibiotics to the cement needs to fulfill the following criteria: Appropriate antibiogramm, adequate elusion characteristics, bactericidal (exception clindamycin), powder form (never use liquid AB), maximum addition of 10%/PMMA powder. Current principles of modern cementing techniques should be applied. Post-operative systemic antibiotic administration is usually followed for only 10–14 days (exception: streptococci). We recommend an early and aggressive mobilization within the first 8 days post-operatively due to the cemented fixation an immediate mobilization under full weight bearing becomes possible in most cases. Persistence or recurrence of infection remains the most relevant complication in the one-staged technique. As failures rates with a two-staged exchange have been described between 9% and 20% in non-resistant bacteria, the ENDO-Klinik data shows comparative results after 8–10 years of follow up, which were confirmed independently also by some other international reports and study groups. In summary a cemented one-stage exchange offers various advantages. Mainly the need for only one operation, shorter hospitalization, reduced systemic antibiotics, lower overall cost and relatively high patient satisfaction. However a well-defined pre-operative planning regime including an experienced microbiologist is absolutely mandatory

BACKGROUND. This scientific work is a non-interventional, experimental and prospective comparative study of two very high-viscosity PMMA bone cements: DePuy CMW 2G and Palacos® fast R+G. Reference product: Palacos® R+G. Fast-setting PMMA bone cements are used in the endoprothetics of the patella and knee (in Australia) and are also used to cement an artificial acetabulum (in the UK). Are there any differences regarding the characteristics of the two fast-setting PMMA bone cements?. MATERIALS AND METHODS. All cements were mixed as specified by the manufacturer and analysed on the following parameters: handling properties (mixing, waiting, working and hardening phase), powder/liquid-ratio, mechanical properties (ISO 5833:2002 and DIN 53435), fatigue strength (ISO 16402) and elution profile. All tests were done in an acclimatised laboratory with temperatures set at 23.5°C ± 0.5°C and a humidity of >40%. Of two batch numbers, 11 units of each bone cement were tested. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. The handling properties of the two tested PMMA bone cements Palacos® fast R+G and CMW 2G are highly similar (n=12). CMW 2G reaches the mixing and waiting phase approximately 20s later than Palacos® fast R+G. Palacos® fast R+G has a similar working, but a shorter hardening phase than CMW 2G. In addition, working with Palacos® fast R+G was advantageous due to its green dye. Palacos® fast R+G has a higher powder/liquid-ratio of 2.550. Due to the higher powder percentage, the cement has a shorter mixing and waiting phase than CMW 2G with a ratio of 2:1. Both analysed bone cements fulfil the quasi-static properties of ISO 5833:2002 and DIN 53435. Palacos® fast R+G was far superior in its ISO compressive strength (MPa) shown through one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p<0.01) and independent two sample t-test (p<0.01) at 0.05 level of significance (n=20)(Fig. 1). CMW 2G has a higher quasi-static ISO bending strength (MPa) than Palacos® fast R+G, but the same test shows a much higher fatigue strength (ISO 16402) of Palacos® fast R+G (n=5) (Fig. 2). Palacos® R+G and Palacos® fast R+G show a similar elution profile (n=3), whereas CMW 2G shows a much lower antibiotic elution over time. CMW 2G releases approximately 1/3 of gentamicin per mould body after 24h. After day 3 and 5, CMW 2G has a significantly lower gentamicin release than Palacos® fast R+G (Fig. 3). Palacos® fast R+G has a higher gentamicin release, due to its hydrophilic polymer basis, which is identical to Palacos® R+G. CMW 2G contains pure PMMA and is therefore more hydrophobic than the other two tested cements. CONCLUSION. Handling with Palacos® fast R+G was advantageous due to its green dye. Because of the shorter handling phases of Palacos® fast R+G, it is superior as it minimises the length of surgeries. Mechanical properties according (ISO 5833:2002 and DIN 53435) were comparable. Palacos® fast R+G has a statistically significant higher ISO compressive strength (MPa). Palacos® fast R+G also showed higher fatigue strength (ISO 16402). Palacos® fast R+G was far superior in matters of gentamicin release over time