Renal Toxicity Associated With Resection and Spacer Insertion for Chronic Hip PJI

Local Antibiotic Delivery in Orthopedics: Review of Current Practices and Emerging Technologies

This article explores the role of local antibiotic delivery in the management of orthopedic infections, a significant challenge in modern healthcare. This article delineates between prophylactic and therapeutic uses of antibiotics, examining various delivery methods, including topical powders, irrigation solutions, intraosseous injections, and antibiotic-loaded bone cement. While local administration aims to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize systemic exposure, there is limited evidence supporting effectiveness. The article aims to review the current practices and evidence and highlight emerging strategies such as hydrogels and biodegradable systems. Ongoing research is essential to optimize these methods and improve patient outcomes in orthopedic care.

Enhanced antibiotic release and biocompatibility with simultaneous addition of N-acetylcysteine and vancomycin to bone cement: a potential replacement for high-dose antibiotic-loaded bone cement

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) is crucial for treating orthopedic infections, but its use is limited by suboptimal antibiotic release patterns and potential toxicity. This study explores the dual addition of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and vancomycin to polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) as a strategy to enhance the antibacterial efficacy and reduce toxicity.

METHODS

PMMA cement cylinders were loaded with varying combinations of NAC and vancomycin and tested for antibiotic release, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial activity over a 35-day period. Porosity of the cements was also evaluated as a measure of potential antibiotic release enhancement.

RESULTS

The addition of NAC improved vancomycin release, particularly after the initial burst release phase, and reduced cytotoxicity compared to high-dose vancomycin alone. The optimal combination was found to be 2 gm vancomycin with either 2 gm or 4 gm of NAC, which maintained effective antibacterial activity over 35 days without the toxicity seen with higher doses of vancomycin alone. Moreover, NAC alone did not demonstrate antibacterial properties, indicating its role primarily as a bioenhancer in this context.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous inclusion of NAC and vancomycin in PMMA bone cement provides a more favorable release profile and biocompatibility than high-dose vancomycin alone, suggesting a potential strategy for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of ALBC in treating prosthetic joint infections. This approach allows for lower doses of antibiotics, reducing potential cytotoxicity, systemic toxicity and enhancing the duration of antibacterial activity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Laboratory study.

A Case of Severe Acute Kidney Injury Due to an Antibiotic-Loaded Cement Spacer for Infected Knee Arthroplasty

The treatment for periprosthetic joint infection frequently involves the placement of a high-dose antibiotic-loaded bone cement spacer (ALCS) into the debrided joint. Typical antibiotics in the spacer include aminoglycosides and vancomycin. It has been believed that systemic absorption of intraarticular antibiotics would be low, and early experience suggested that the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) from ALCS was minimal. However, recent case reports and case series have suggested a risk of AKI owing to antibiotic absorption, though confounding factors are common. We report a case of severe AKI requiring hemodialysis with extremely high systemic tobramycin levels after the placement of an ALCS with increased dosing of antibiotics after previous failure to resolve a periprosthetic joint infection with a prior ALCS. There was no concomitant use of intravenous nephrotoxic antibiotics, nor were there other confounding factors. Despite dialysis, the patient needed urgent removal of the ALCS to control tobramycin levels, with subsequent resolution of the AKI. This case highlights the potentially serious nephrotoxicity of ALCSs, the importance of antibiotic type and dosing, and the value of close monitoring after ALCS placement, especially in a patient with chronic kidney disease.

Exploring Acute Kidney Injury Incidence in Hip Periprosthetic Joint Infection Treatment With Combined Intravenous and Intra-articular Antibiotic Infusion

Background

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a significant complication following total hip arthroplasty, impacting patient health and healthcare costs. This study examines the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing hip PJI treatment with a combination of intravenous and intra-articular antibiotic infusion therapies.

Methods

A retrospective review of 151 patient records from May 1, 2010 to December 30, 2022 was conducted at a single academic hospital. Patients were treated for hip PJIs using debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention or single-stage revision surgeries. AKI was classified according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes criteria.

Results

Among 151 patients, 17 (11.26%) developed AKI, with 13 cases resolving transiently before discharge. The median onset of AKI was on postoperative day 2, with stage I AKI being the most prevalent, accounting for 64.71% of cases. Diabetes and low baseline serum creatinine levels were identified as independent risk factors for AKI, with odds ratios of 9.69 and 1.09, respectively.

Conclusions

The combined regimen of intra-articular and intravenous antibiotic infusion appears to have a manageable risk profile regarding AKI. This approach could serve as a viable alternative for PJI management, emphasizing the importance of careful patient monitoring and tailored antibiotic regimens. Further studies are recommended to optimize treatment protocols and mitigate risks.

Antibiotic-loaded cement in total joint arthroplasty: a comprehensive review

This review evaluates the decision-making framework for using antibiotic-loaded cement (ALC) in the management of prosthetic joint infection (PJI). Drawing on available literature, we offer orthopaedic surgeons a guided discussion on several critical considerations. First, we explore the impact of antibiotic-loading on the mechanical properties of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement, assessing both strength and durability. We then explore the optimal antibiotic dosage to load into cement, aiming to achieve effective local concentrations for infection control without compromising mechanical stability. Furthermore, we explore how cement and antibiotic properties affect the overall antibiotic elution characteristics of ALC. Finally, we discuss risks of systemic toxicity, particularly acute kidney injury, when using ALC. The principal goal in this review is to provide a balanced approach based on best available evidence that optimises antibiotic elution from ALC whilst minimising potential harms associated with its use.

Ninety-day postoperative mortality and complications in continuous and unselected single-stage revisions for chronic periprosthetic joint infection

PURPOSE

Single-stage revision has gained significant attention as a major surgical approach for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, the 90-day mortality and complication profile of single-stage revision is poorly characterized. The purposes of this study were to determine the incidence rates of and identify the risk factors for 90-day postoperative mortality and complications of single-stage revision for chronic PJI.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on patients who underwent single-stage revision for PJI between August 2000 and May 2022. Patient demographics, 90-day mortality, and postoperative complications were recorded. Complications were categorized into systemic and local complications. Patients in this study were further categorized into knee and hip revision groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant independent predictors of the outcome measures.

RESULTS

348 patients (144 knees and 204 hips) were included in this study. The 90-day mortality rate was 0.9%. The incidence rates of postoperative complications in knee and hip surgeries were 31.3% and 19.6%, respectively. The most common complication was deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was the independent predictor of mortality. In the knee revision group, fungal infection was identified as the independent predictor of recurrent PJI; regular alcohol use was predictive of wound dehiscence. Among hip PJI patients, age ≥ 80 years was independently associated with DVT; RA was found to be a predictor of dislocation and wound dehiscence.

CONCLUSION

For continuous and unselected patients with chronic PJI, single-stage revision demonstrated a satisfactory 90-day mortality. Nevertheless, the 90-day postoperative complication rates after single-stage revision in both knee and hip groups were relatively high.

Mouldable Collagen-Tricalciumphosphate Is a Safe Carrier for Local Antibiotics-Short-Term Results in Revision Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Improving local antibiotic delivery is a promising approach to improve infection control and potentially shorten systemic treatment in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). This study investigates the use of an antibiotic-loaded, mouldable collagen-tricalciumphosphate composite in treatment of hip PJI.

METHODS

124 application cases in 79 patients were included from a referral centre; systemic adverse infects, local complications, and infection control were analysed.

RESULTS

In most cases, either vancomycin or meropenem were used. Pathogens were previously known in 82 (66%) cases with polymicrobial infection in 20 (25%) patients. There were no cases of hypercalcaemia. Acute kidney injure was present in 14 (11%) cases. Chronic kidney failure persisted in two cases. During a mean follow-up of 12 (SD 9.3; range 3-35) months, implant survival was achieved in 73 (92%) patients; revision due to PJI was performed in 19 cases.

CONCLUSION

Mouldable collagen-tricalciumphosphate composite bone substitute as a local antibiotic carrier in revision hip arthroplasty appears to be a valid option for local antibiotic delivery without systemic complications. Implant survival of 92% supports the hypothesis that local antibiotic therapy is an important component in the treatment of PJI.

High Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury Following Antibiotic-Loaded Spacer Insertion for Periprosthetic Joint Infection: An Updated Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

The use of antibiotic-impregnated cement during 2-stage revision arthroplasty for periprosthetic joint infection poses a risk of renal complications following spacer insertion. This systematic review aimed to investigate the rate of acute kidney injury (AKI) following antibiotic-loaded spacer insertion and to identify risk factors associated with this complication.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Central, and Scopus databases. All clinical studies that documented renal complications following antibiotic-loaded spacer insertion for periprosthetic knee (total knee arthroplasty [TKA]) or hip (total hip arthroplasty [THA]) infection were included. Articles that combined THA and TKA outcomes were also included and labeled "THA + TKA." Descriptive statistics were analyzed when data were available.

RESULTS

There were 24 studies (9 THA, 7 TKA, 8 THA + TKA) included. The mean incidences of spacer-related AKI across THA, TKA, and THA + TKA cohorts were 4.2 (range, 0 to 10%), 14 (range, 0 to 19%), and 27% (range, 0 to 35%), respectively. The most common patient-related risk factors for AKI were underlying chronic kidney disease or high baseline creatinine, low preoperative hemoglobin, and blood transfusion requirement. Spacer-related risk factors included high antibiotic dosage (>3.6 g/cement batch) and antibiotic type. While most recovered without complication, select patients required hemodialysis for acute management (2 THA, 18 THA + TKA) and/or developed chronic kidney disease (8 TKA, 8 THA).

CONCLUSION

The rate of AKI following spacer insertion was high and likely under-reported in the literature. Surgeons should be cognizant of this devastating complication and should closely monitor at-risk patients for AKI following antibiotic-loaded spacer insertion.

Should We Use Rifampicin in Periprosthetic Joint Infections Caused by Staphylococci When the Implant Has Been Exchanged? A Multicenter Observational Cohort Study

Background

Previous studies demonstrated the efficacy of a rifampicin-based regimen in the treatment of acute staphylococcal periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) treated with surgical debridement. However, evidence is lacking to support the use of rifampicin in cases where the implant is exchanged during revision.

Methods

We included all consecutive cases of staphylococcal PJIs treated from January 2013 to December 2018 with revision surgery in this international, retrospective, multicenter observational cohort study. PJI was defined according to the European Bone and Joint Infection Society diagnostic criteria. A relapse or reinfection during follow-up, the need for antibiotic suppressive therapy, the need for implant removal, and PJI-related death were defined as clinical failure. Cases without reimplantation or with follow-up <12 months were excluded.

Results

A total of 375 cases were included in the final analysis, including 124 1-stage exchanges (33.1%) and 251 2-stage exchanges (66.9%). Of those, 101 cases failed (26.9%). There was no statistically significant difference in failure of patients receiving rifampicin (22.5%, 42/187) and those not receiving rifampicin (31.4%, 59/188; P = .051). A subanalysis of chronic PJIs treated by 2-stage exchange arthroplasty demonstrated a lower failure rate in cases treated with rifampicin (15%) compared with the no-rifampicin group (35.5%; P = .005). In this subgroup, the use of rifampicin and an antibiotic holiday of >2 weeks were independent predictors of clinical success (odds ratio [OR], 0.36; 95% CI, 0.15-0.88; and OR, 0.19; 95% CI, 0.04-0.90; respectively).

Conclusions

Combination treatment with rifampicin increases treatment success in patients with chronic staphylococcal PJI treated with 2-stage exchange arthroplasty.

Incidence, associated factors, and outcomes of acute kidney injury following placement of antibiotic bone cement spacers in two-stage exchange for periprosthetic joint infection: a comprehensive study

BACKGROUND

Two-stage exchange with placement of antibiotic cement spacer (ACS) is the gold standard for the treatment of chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), but it could cause a high prevalence of acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the results of the current evidence on this topic are too mixed to effectively guide clinical practice.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 340 chronic PJI patients who underwent the first-stage exchange with placement of ACS. The Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guideline was used to define postoperative AKI. Multivariate logistic analysis was performed to determine the potential factors associated with AKI. Furthermore, a systematic review and meta-analysis on this topic were conducted to summarize the knowledge in the current literature further.

RESULTS

In our cohort, the incidence of AKI following first-stage exchange was 12.1%. Older age (per 10 years, OR= 1.509) and preoperative hypoalbuminemia (OR= 3.593) were independent predictors for postoperative AKI. Eight AKI patients progressed to chronic kidney disease after 90 days. A meta-analysis including a total of 2525 PJI patients showed the incidence of AKI was 16.6%, and AKI requiring acute dialysis was 1.4%. Besides, host characteristics, poor baseline liver function, factors contributing to acute renal blood flow injury, and the use of nephrotoxic drugs may be associated with the development of AKI. However, only a few studies supported an association between antibiotic dose and AKI.

CONCLUSION

AKI occurs in approximately one out of every six PJI patients undergoing first-stage exchange. The pathogenesis of AKI is multifactorial, with hypoalbuminemia could be an overlooked associated factor. Although the need for acute dialysis is uncommon, the fact that some AKI patients will develop CKD still needs to be taken into consideration.

Custom-Made Articulating Spacer (CUMARS): The Resolution of Periosteal Reaction and Femur Remodelling in Periprosthetic Hip Infection

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is one of the most common complications after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Two-stage revision surgery is one of the treatment options for PJI, however, it has been associated with poor patient tolerance, reduced patient mobility, and periarticular tissue contracture leading to difficulty during second-stage reconstruction. The custom-made articulating spacer (CUMARS) was developed to provide an alternative that is better tolerated and to reduce the complexity of second-stage reconstruction. This study details the treatment of a patient with PJI post-THA with significant periosteal reaction using a CUMARS construct, which enabled immediate post-operative weight bearing, eventual eradication of infection, restoration of femoral bone stock, and avoidance of second-stage reconstruction.

Acute kidney injury in the context of staged revision arthroplasty and the use of antibiotic-laden cement spacers: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The most common cause of revision arthroplasty is prosthetic joint infection (PJI). Chronic PJI is commonly treated with two-stage exchange arthroplasty involving the placement of antibiotic-laden cement spacers (ACS) in the first stage, often containing nephrotoxic antibiotics. These patients often have significant comorbidity burdens and have higher rates of acute kidney injury (AKI). This systematic review aims to assess the current literature to identify (1) AKI incidence, (2) associated risk factors, and (3) antibiotic concentration thresholds in ACS that increase AKI risk following first-stage revision arthroplasty.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed of the PubMed database of all studies involving patients undergoing ACS placement for chronic PJI. Studies assessing AKI rates and risk factors were screened by two authors independently. Data synthesis was performed when possible. Significant heterogeneity prevented meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eight observational studies consisting of 540 knee PJIs and 943 hip PJIs met inclusion criteria. There were 309 (21%) cases involving AKI. The most commonly reported risk factors included perfusion-related factors (lower preoperative hemoglobin, transfusion requirement, or hypovolemia), older age, increased comorbidity burden, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug consumption. Only two studies found increased risk with greater ACS antibiotic concentration (> 4 g vancomycin and > 4.8 g tobramycin per spacer in one study, > 3.6 g of vancomycin per batch or > 3.6 g of aminoglycosides per batch in the other); however, these were reported from univariate analyses not accounting for other potential risk factors.

DISCUSSION

Patients undergoing ACS placement for chronic PJI are at an increased risk for AKI. Understanding the risk factors may lead to better multidisciplinary care and safer outcomes for chronic PJI patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

A simple method to improve the antibiotic elution profiles from polymethylmethacrylate bone cement spacers by using rapid absorbable sutures

OBJECTIVE

Antibiotic-loaded bone cement beads and spacers have been widely used for orthopaedic infection. Poor antibiotic elution is not capable of eradicating microbial pathogens and could lead to treatment failure. The elution profiles differ among different cement formulations. Although Simplex P cement has the least release amount, it is widely used due to its ready availability. Previous methods aiming to improve the elution profiles were not translated well to clinical practice. We sought to address this by using easily available materials to improve the elution profile of antibiotics from PMMA, which allows clinicians to implement the method intraoperatively.

METHODS

Vancomycin was mixed with Simplex P cement. We used Vicryl Rapide sutures to fabricate sustained-release cement beads by repetitively passing the sutures through the beads and/or mixing suture segments into the cement formulation. Vancomycin elution was measured for 49 days. The mechanism of antibiotic release was observed with gross appearance and scanning electron microscopic images. The antimicrobial activities against MRSA were tested using an agar disk diffusion bioassay.

RESULTS

Passing Vicryl Rapide sutures through cement beads significantly improved the elution profiles in the 7-week period. The increased ratios were 9.0% on the first day and 118.0% from the 2nd day to the 49th day. Addition of suture segments did not increase release amount. The Vicryl Rapide sutures completely degraded at the periphery and partially degraded at the center. The antibiotic particles were released around the suture, while antibiotic particles kept densely entrapped in the control group. The antimicrobial activities were stronger in passing suture groups.

CONCLUSION

Passing fast absorbable sutures through PMMA cement is a feasible method to fabricate sustained-release antibiotic bone cement. Intra-cement tunnels can be formed, and the effect can last for at least 7 weeks. It is suitable for a temporary spacer between two stages of a revision surgery.

Nephrotoxicity Related to Antibiotic-Loaded Spacers in a 2-Stage Revision for Periprosthetic Joint Infection

Antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) spacers are the mainstay in 2-stage revision, but antibiotics (vancomycin plus aminoglycosides) may undergo systemic absorption, resulting in acute kidney injury (AKI). Data on spacer antibiotics are heterogeneous. Our objective was to review risk factors for AKI and dosage of antibiotics. Significant AKI risk factors were antibiotic concentration greater than 3 or 3.6 g per cement batch, comorbidities, chronic kidney disease, and hypovolemia. Despite similar spacer antibiotic dosing, there was remarkable variability in serum concentrations. To err on the side of caution, it appears that antibiotic dose below 3 g per cement batch might be relatively safe until more evidence surfaces. Consideration of risk factors for AKI calls for appropriate antibiotic use in 2-stage revision. [Orthopedics. 20XX;XX(X):xx-xx.].