In 2013, we introduced a specialized, centralized, and interdisciplinary team in our institution that applied a standardized diagnostic and treatment algorithm for the management of prosthetic joint infections (PJIs). The hypothesis for this study was that the outcome of treatment would be improved using this approach. In a retrospective analysis with a standard postoperative follow-up, 95 patients with a PJI of the hip and knee who were treated with a two-stage exchange between 2013 and 2017 formed the study group. A historical cohort of 86 patients treated between 2009 and 2011 not according to the standardized protocol served as a control group. The success of treatment was defined according to the Delphi criteria in a two-year follow-up.Aims
Patients and Methods
The diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection can be difficult
due to the high rate of culture-negative infections. The aim of
this study was to assess the use of next-generation sequencing for
detecting organisms in synovial fluid. In this prospective, single-blinded study, 86 anonymized samples
of synovial fluid were obtained from patients undergoing aspiration
of the hip or knee as part of the investigation of a periprosthetic
infection. A panel of synovial fluid tests, including levels of
C-reactive protein, human neutrophil elastase, total neutrophil
count, alpha-defensin, and culture were performed prior to next-generation
sequencing.Aims
Materials and Methods
Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is one of
the most feared and challenging complications following total knee arthroplasty.
We provide a detailed description of our current understanding regarding
the management of PJI of the knee, including diagnostic aids,
pre-operative planning, surgical treatment, and outcome. Cite this article:
