Training in clinical microbiology and infectious diseases in Europe

Infectious disease specialists and teamwork strategies worldwide: the World Association against Infection in Orthopedics and Trauma (WAIOT) and SICOT continue to cooperate in fighting musculoskeletal infections

Bone and joint infections are associated with a devastating global burden. The successful treatment of these infections requires a multidisciplinary approach between orthopedic surgeons and experts of different disciplines. This multidisciplinary approach has gained ground over the past decades in modern infection units as a more effective treatment strategy, yielding better outcomes regarding infection eradication rates, length of hospital stay, and overall cost of treatments. Additionally, preventing and managing musculoskeletal infections requires strong connections between medical associations, biological laboratories, and the pharmaceutical industry worldwide. In this context, SICOT and World Association against Infection in Orthopaedics and Trauma (WAIOT) relationships have been increasing. The present editorial article discusses the multidisciplinary approach for managing bone and joint infections worldwide, explores the controversies in practices in terms of training, area of expertise, and extent of clinical involvement, and emphasizes the role of societies in research, prevention and management of musculoskeletal infections. The purpose is to acknowledge what orthopedics can obtain from specialists dealing with bone and joint infections and to consolidate their practice to provide the best care for orthopedic patients.