Debridement and implant retention in the management of hip periprosthetic joint infection: outcomes following guided and rapid treatment at a single centre

Patient-Related Predictors of Treatment Failure after Two-Stage Total Hip Arthroplasty Revision for Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) treatment has high failure rates even after two-stage revision. Risk factors for treatment failure after staged revision for PJI are not well defined, nor is it well established how they correlate with the risks of developing an index PJI. Identifying modifiable risk factors may allow preoperative optimization, while identifying non-modifiable risk factors can influence surgical options or advise against further surgery. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to better define predictors of treatment failure in two-stage revision for PJI.

METHODS

The Pubmed, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched from their inception in December 1976 to April 15, 2023. Studies comparing patient-related variables between patients successfully treated who had two-staged revision total hip arthroplasty and patients with persistent infections were included. Studies were screened, and two independent reviewers extracted data, while a third resolved discrepancies. Meta-analysis was performed on these data. There were 10,052 unique studies screened, and 21 studies met the inclusion criteria for data extraction.

RESULTS

There was good-quality evidence that obesity, liver cirrhosis, and previous failed revisions for PJI are non-modifiable risk factors, while intravenous drug use and smoking are modifiable risk factors for treatment failure after two-stage revision for hip PJI. Reoperation between revision stages was also significantly associated with an increased risk of treatment failure. Interestingly, other risk factors for an index PJI including male gender, American Society of Anaesthesiology score, diabetes mellitus and inflammatory arthropathy did not predict treatment failure. Evidence on Charlson Comorbidity Index was limited.

DISCUSSION

Patients with a smoking history, obesity, intravenous drug use, previous failed revision for PJI, reoperation between stages and LC are more likely to experience TF after two-stage revision THA for PJI. Modifiable risk factors include smoking and IVDU and these patients should be referred to services for cessation as early as possible before two-stage revision THA.

Global mapping of institutional and hospital-based (Level II-IV) arthroplasty registries: a scoping review

PURPOSE

Four joint arthroplasty registries (JARs) levels exist based on the recorded data type. Level I JARs are national registries that record primary data. Hospital or institutional JARs (Level II-IV) document further data (patient-reported outcomes, demographic, radiographic). A worldwide list of Level II-IV JARs must be created to effectively assess and categorize these data.

METHODS

Our study is a systematic scoping review that followed the PRISMA guidelines and included 648 studies. Based on their publications, the study aimed to map the existing Level II-IV JARs worldwide. The secondary aim was to record their lifetime, publications' number and frequency and recognise differences with national JARs.

RESULTS

One hundred five Level II-IV JARs were identified. Forty-eight hospital-based, 45 institutional, and 12 regional JARs. Fifty JARs were found in America, 39 in Europe, nine in Asia, six in Oceania and one in Africa. They have published 485 cohorts, 91 case-series, 49 case-control, nine cross-sectional studies, eight registry protocols and six randomized trials. Most cohort studies were retrospective. Twenty-three per cent of papers studied patient-reported outcomes, 21.45% surgical complications, 13.73% postoperative clinical and 5.25% radiographic outcomes, and 11.88% were survival analyses. Forty-four JARs have published only one paper. Level I JARs primarily publish implant revision risk annual reports, while Level IV JARs collect comprehensive data to conduct retrospective cohort studies.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study mapping all Level II-IV JARs worldwide. Most JARs are found in Europe and America, reporting on retrospective cohorts, but only a few report on studies systematically.

Local Administration of Antibiotics in Orthopedics and Traumatology

2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the development of the antibiotic loaded PMMA chain. The loading of bone cements with antibiotics was a major advance in the treatment of musculoskeletal infections and is still a proven standard today. The research and use of novel antibiotic carriers continues to be an important part of research in the context of musculoskeletal infections. The article provides an overview of the various local antibiotics available and their specifics. In addition, current adapted treatment concepts are discussed.

Hydrogel Coating versus Calcium Sulphate Beads as a Local Antibiotic Carrier for Debridement Procedures in Acute Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Preliminary Study

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) are among the most difficult complications to treat in orthopaedic surgery. Debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) represent an efficient strategy for acute PJI, especially when resorbable local antibiotic carriers and coatings are used. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the difference between using antibiotic-loaded hydrogel (ALH) and calcium sulphate (CS) beads in the DAIR procedure. We analysed 16 patients who had been treated since 2018 for acute PJI, namely eight patients with knee PJI (50%), seven with hip PJI (43.7%), and one with shoulder PJI (6.2%). Nine patients were treated with the Debridement, Antibiotic Coating and Retention of the Implant (DACRI) method, while seven were treated with the Debridement, Antibiotic Pearls, Retention of the Implant (DAPRI) method. We found no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, sex, the American Society of Anesthesiologists risk score, Charlson Comorbidity Index, localisation, days from onset to diagnosis and pathogenesis. Furthermore, no differences were found between the DACRI and DAPRI groups in terms of infection control (15 patients, 93.75% with p = 0.36) and last C-Reactive Protein values (p = 0.26), with a mean follow-up of 26.1 ± 7.7 months. Treatment for one patient affected by knee Candida albicans PJI in the DACRI group was not successful. In conclusion, DAPRI and DACRI appear to be safe and effective treatments for PJIs. This evidence will encourage the development of new clinical research into local carriers and coatings for use in acute implant-associated infections.

Periprosthetic joint infection after total hip arthroplasty induces histological degeneration of the gluteus medius tendon

Aims

A revision for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has a major effect on the patient's quality of life, including walking capacity. The objective of this case control study was to investigate the histological and ultrastructural changes to the gluteus medius tendon (GMED) in patients revised due to a PJI, and to compare it with revision THAs without infection performed using the same lateral approach.

Methods

A group of eight patients revised due to a PJI with a previous lateral approach was compared with a group of 21 revised THAs without infection, performed using the same approach. The primary variables of the study were the fibril diameter, as seen in transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the total degeneration score (TDS), as seen under the light microscope. An analysis of bacteriology, classification of infection, and antibiotic treatment was also performed.

Results

Biopsy samples from the GMED from infected patients revealed a larger fibril diameter than control patients, as seen in the TEM (p < 0.001). Uninfected patients were slightly older and had their revisions performed significantly later than the infected patients. Histologically, samples from infected patients revealed significantly more vascularity (p < 0.001), the presence of glycosaminoglycans (p < 0.001), and a higher TDS (p = 0.003) than the control patients. The majority of patients had staphylococcal infections of various species.

Conclusion

More histological degeneration in the GMED was found in patients undergoing THA revision surgery due to PJI than in patients undergoing THA revision surgery due to other reasons.

Investigation of the effect of rifampicin resistance and risk factors on recovery rates after DAIR procedure in patients with prosthetic joint infection

BACKGROUND

Rifampicin plays a key role in the management of prosthetic joint infections (PJIs), however, the emergence of rifampicin resistance is associated with less favourable clinical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of rifampicin resistance and other patient-related factors on recovery rates among patients with PJI undergoing debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR).

METHODS

We reviewed medical records and microbiology reports of 67 patients (37 males and 30 females) undergoing DAIR due to PJI between 2014 and 2021. Patient-related factors, co-morbidities and microbiological reports were collected and reviewed. Forty-four patients had hip, 21 had knee, 1 had shoulder and 1 had elbow joint infection. Obtained data were statistically analysed with a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Rifampicin-sensitive organism was isolated in 47 cases. Recovery rate was 72.3% in the sensitive and 76.9% in the resistant group. We found no significant effect of rifampicin resistance on the probability of recovery. Age and diabetes mellitus showed negative clinical impact on recovery. Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococci were predominant in the rifampicin-sensitive (66.6% of the isolates) and Gram-negative rods in the resistant group (65.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our results, higher age and diabetes mellitus may have a clinically relevant negative impact on clinical outcome, however, this effect was not statistically significant. This may be due to the limited number of patients included in this study. We observed no clinically relevant effect of rifampicin-resistance, sex and body mass index (BMI) on recovery rates among patients undergoing DAIR due to PJI.

Debridement, antimicrobials, and implant retention in the treatment of late acute and early acute Staphylococcus aureus prosthetic joint infections

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus is the most common microbe in prosthetic joint infections (PJIs). Debridement, antimicrobials, and implant retention (DAIR) are often-recommended treatment modality for acute PJIs, even though it has had relatively poor outcomes in some studies. In this study, we wanted to examine treatment results with a multidisciplinary team in a specialised centre and obtain further information for treatment decisions in acute Staphylococcus aureus PJIs.

METHODS

All consecutive haematogenous late acute and postoperative early acute hip and knee Staphylococcus aureus PJIs treated with DAIR during 2011-2016 were included in this retrospective study. DAIR within three weeks from symptom onset and the exchange of modular parts were required.

RESULTS

Eighty-five acute Staphylococcus aureus PJIs were treated with DAIR in 83 patients: 28 late acute and 57 early acute PJIs. The late acute PJI patients were older and had malignancies more often than the early acute PJI patients. Bacteraemia was present in 50.6% of Staphylococcus aureus PJI patients, more often in late acute (73.1%) than in early acute (40.4%) patients (p = .006). The implant was retained in 80.0%: 89.3% of the late acute and 75.4% of the early acute PJIs. In 17 joints, DAIR failed and the joint had to be removed. Fourteen of these joints were successfully replaced. One infection-related death occurred. The one-year all-cause mortality rate was 3.6%. Suppressive antimicrobial treatment was given to 22 (26.5%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Reasonably good treatment results for acute Staphylococcus aureus PJIs are achievable by DAIR in a specialised centre with a strict treatment protocol and a multidisciplinary team. If the DAIR fails, a two-stage exchange is usually still possible, with good results.

Enough is enough: salvage procedures in severe periprosthetic joint infection

BACKGROUND

In severe cases of periprosthetic joint infection involving negative host-dependent factors, individual-based decisions between a curative therapy vs. salvage procedure are necessary. We aimed to review salvage procedures in severe periprosthetic joint infection cases, where a gold standard of a curative two-stage exchange can no longer be achieved. The options of knee arthrodesis, amputation, persistent fistula (stable drainage), or a debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention procedure in late-onset cases are discussed, including lifelong antibiotic suppression alone.

METHODS

We focused on known salvage procedures for severe periprosthetic joint infection of the hip and knee, such as amputation, arthrodesis, antibiotic suppression, persistent fistula, and debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention in late-stage infections, and the role of local antibiotics. The current literature regarding indications and outcomes was reviewed.

RESULTS

Whereas a successful single-stage above-knee amputation can be a curative effort in younger patients, this is associated with limited outcome in older patients, as the proportion who receive an exoprosthesis leading to independent mobility is low. Therefore, arthrodesis using an intramedullary modular nail is an option for limb salvage, pain reduction, and preservation of quality of life and everyday life mobility, when revision total knee arthroplasty is not an option. Carrying out a persistent fistula using a stable drainage system, as well as a lifelong antibiotic suppression therapy, can be an option, in cases where no other surgery is possible. Active clinical surveillance should then be carried out. A debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention procedure in combination with local degradable antibiotics can be used and is an encouraging new option, but should not been carried out twice.

CONCLUSION

Whereas the gold standard in periprosthetic joint infection treatment of late infections remains the exchange of the prosthesis, salvage procedures should be considered in the cases of reduced life expectancy, several recurrences of the infection, patients having preference and negative host factors. In these cases, the appropriate salvage procedure can temporarily lead to remission of the infection and the possibility to maintain mobility.

Implant retention with serial debridement and use of antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate beads in acute fracture-related infection (FRI) after pelvic ring or acetabular fractures: A retrospective case series of 7 cases

BACKGROUND

The development of a pelvic wound infection in the presence of hardware after open reduction and internal fixation presents a clinical dilemma and there is little literature to aid in decision-making. The purpose of this study was to describe the possibility of debridement, antibiotic pearls and retention of the implant (DAPRI) procedure to eradicate the infection.

METHODS

Tumor-like debridement, antibiotic pearls and retention of the implant (DAPRI) aimed to remove the biofilm allowing a higher and prolonged local antibiotic concentration by using calcium sulfate antibiotic-added beads. Wound status, radiological signs of bone healing, gait and functional activity of the patient were evaluated.

RESULTS

Seven patients underwent this technique. The mean follow up time was nine months (range: 6 -16 months). Complete wound healing was achieved in all the patients with no major complications. Average time of bony union was 4.3 months (range: 3-6 months) with no need for implant removal.

CONCLUSION

The DAPRI technique might represent a safe and more conservative treatment for management of early fracture-related infections (FRI) of the pelvis and acetabulum.

A review of current practices in periprosthetic joint infection debridement and revision arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic joint infection remains a significant challenge for arthroplasty surgeons globally. Over the last few decades, there has been much advancement in terms of treatment and diagnosis, however, the fight rages on. As management of periprosthetic joint infections continues to evolve, it is critical to reflect back on current debridement practices to establish common ground as well as identify areas for future research and improvement. BODY: In order to understand the debridement techniques of periprosthetic joint infections, one must also understand how to diagnose a periprosthetic joint infection. Multiple definitions have been elucidated over the years with no single consensus established but rather sets of criteria. Once a diagnosis has been established the decision of debridement method becomes whether to proceed with single vs two-stage revision based on the probability of infection as well as individual patient factors. After much study, two-stage revision has emerged as the gold standard in the management of periprosthetic infections but single-stage remains prominent with further and further research.

CONCLUSION

Despite decades of data, there is no single treatment algorithm for periprosthetic joint infections and subsequent debridement technique. Our review touches on the goals of debridement while providing a perspective as to diagnosis and the particulars of how intraoperative factors such as intraarticular irrigation can play pivotal roles in infection eradication. By providing a perspective on current debridement practices, we hope to encourage future study and debate on how to address periprosthetic joint infections best.

Rifampicin resistance and risk factors associated with significantly lower recovery rates after two stage revision in patients with prosthetic joint infection

PURPOSE

Rifampicin plays a key role in the management of prosthetic joint infections (PJIs), however, the emergence of rifampicin resistance is associated with less favorable clinical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of rifampicin resistance and other patient-related factors on recovery rates among patients with PJI undergoing two-stage revision.

METHODS

We reviewed medical records and microbiology reports of 73 patients (41 males and 32 females) undergoing two-stage revision due to PJI between 2017 and 2019. Patient-specific data, co-morbidities and the antibiotic resistance of microbiological isolates were registered. 48 patients had hip, 22 had knee, 2 had shoulder and 1 had elbow joint infection. Obtained data were statistically analyzed with a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Rifampicin-sensitive organism was isolated in 53 cases (72.6%). Recovery rate was 92.5% in the sensitive and 60.0% in the resistant group. We observed that rifampicin resistance significantly reduced the probability of recovery. Furthermore, in the rifampicin-sensitive group, the probability of recovery decreased with advancing age with a significant drop above the age of 60 years. The effect of age is negligible in the rifampicin-resistant group. We also found that type 2 diabetes mellitus has a negative effect on recovery. Coagulase-negative Staphylococci were predominant in the rifampicin-sensitive (50% of the isolates) and Gram-negative rods in the resistant group (40%).

CONCLUSIONS

Rifampicin resistance was associated with lower recovery rates among patients undergoing two-stage revision due to PJI. Higher age and type 2 diabetes mellitus had negative impact on clinical outcome.

Outcomes of Debridement, Antibiotics and Implant Retention (DAIR) for Periprosthetic Joint Infection in a High-Volume Arthroplasty Centre

PURPOSE

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) can be a devastating diagnosis. Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is a preferred treatment modality for acute PJI. A retrospective analysis of infected primary arthroplasties to evaluate the success of DAIR and factors influencing its outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent DAIR for PJI at our unit between 2010 and 2018. Patients who underwent revision surgery as an index procedure, arthroscopic washout and those with less than two years of follow-up were excluded. Treatment failure was defined as revision arthroplasty for recurrence of infection within 2 years of the index procedure. Chi-square and Fischer's exact test were used to compare between patient factors and DAIR outcomes. Kaplan-Meier survival curve and log-rank test were used to analyse implant survivorship following DAIR.

RESULTS

Of the sixty patients (40 knees, 20 hips) who underwent DAIR, eighteen (13 knees, 5 hips) required revision arthroplasty within 2 years accounting for a success rate of 70%. Predictive factors for revision were American Society of Anaesthesiologist (ASA) score of greater than 2 (p = 0.021), BMI > 35 (p = 0.046), C Reactive protein (CRP) > 200 mg/L (p = 0.007) and Staphylococcus aureus growth (p = 0.012). The five-year survival rate for DAIR was 70%, which remained constant after two years from DAIR.

CONCLUSION

Success rate of DAIR in PJI was 70% which was comparable to similar studies in the literature. ASA > 2, BMI > 35, CRP > 200 and staphylococcus aureus growth were predictors for DAIR failure. Implant survival rate and duration were better following DAIR in early-onset PJI.

Outcomes of Concurrent Endocarditis and Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Retrospective Case Series of 16 Patients

Introduction

Concurrent diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with infectious endocarditis is a devastating clinical scenario infrequently documented in the literature. To date, no studies have fully described the orthopedic and infectious outcomes of patients with these concurrent diagnoses. The purpose of this study was to conduct a case series of patients with these diagnoses and document the orthopedic and infectious outcomes so that surgeons may effectively counsel patients regarding the gravity of the condition and the expected course of treatment.

Methods

This study is a retrospective case series using patient data from five hospitals within an academic healthcare system in the northeastern United States. Cases of concurrent endocarditis and THA or TKA PJI with a minimum of one-year follow-up were identified from January 2000 to January 2021. Basic statistics such as means, standard deviations, and percentages were used to identify trends within our series. Kaplan-Meier survivorship curves with log-rank tests were performed to determine if there were any differences in two-year mortality and joint survival (defined as needing explant) between patients who had cardiac surgery prior to surgical management for their PJI and those who had surgical management for PJI prior to cardiac surgery.

Results

A total of 18 joints in 16 patients with endocarditis and concurrent TKA or THA PJI were identified. All PJIs were managed surgically, with 14/18 (77.77%) of joint infections initially being managed by debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) and 4/18 (22.22%) of joint infections initially being managed by explant. Within the first six months of PJI diagnosis, 25% (4/16) of patients died of complications related to their infection, and one additional patient died of bacteremia just over a year after the initial PJI diagnosis. Of the 18 PJIs, 72.23% (13/18) had treatment failure, defined as any outcome equal to or worse than requiring chronic suppressive antibiotics for the infection. Due to low statistical power, we were not able to identify any differences in two-year mortality from PJI diagnosis (p=0.311) or joint survival (in terms of requiring explant) (p=0.420) depending on whether cardiac surgery or DAIR was performed first.

Conclusions

Concurrent infectious endocarditis and prosthetic joint infection is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Patients with these concurrent infections should be counseled that not only the associated mortality rate is high, but also the surgical treatment of their PJI has a high rate of treatment failure, including an explant following an initial DAIR, an explant with retained spacer, or a requirement of lifelong antibiotic suppression.

Debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention in non-oncological femoral megaprosthesis infections: minimum 5 year follow-up

Purpose

Megaprostheses are increasingly utilised outside of the oncological setting, and remain at significant risk of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Debridement, antibiotic, and implant retention (DAIR) is an established treatment for PJI, however its use in non-oncological patients with femoral megaprostheses has not been widely reported. There are significant differences in patient physiology, treatment goals, and associated risks between these patient cohorts.

Methods

We identified 14 patients who underwent DAIR for a PJI of their femoral megaprostheses, between 2000 and 2014, whom had their index procedure secondary to non-oncological indications. Patients were managed as part of a multidisciplinary team, with our standardised surgical technique including exchange of all mobile parts, and subsequent antibiotic therapy for a minimum of 3 months. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 5 years.

Results

Patients included six proximal femoral replacements, five distal femoral replacements, and three total femoral replacements. No patients were lost to follow-up. There were six males and eight females, with a mean age of 67.2 years, and mean ASA of 2.3.

Nine patients (64.3%) successfully cleared their infection following DAIR at a minimum of 5 year follow-up. Five patients (35.7%) required further revision surgery, with four patients cleared of infection. No patients who underwent DAIR alone suffered complications as a result of the procedure.

Conclusions

The use of DAIR in these complex patients can lead to successful outcomes, but the risk of further revision remains high. The success rate (64.3%) remains on par with other studies evaluating DAIR in megaprostheses and in primary arthroplasty. This study indicates judicious use of DAIR can be an appropriate part of the treatment algorithm.

Level of evidence

II

Risk Factors of DAIR Failure and Validation of the KLIC Score: A Multicenter Study of Four Hundred Fifty-Five Patients

Background: Debridement, antibiotic agents, and implant retention (DAIR) is a currently accepted approach for the treatment of early prosthetic joint infections (PJI). The success of a DAIR procedure has shown variable results throughout the published literature. Scoring systems such as the Kidney, Liver, Index surgery, Cemented prosthesis, and C-reactive protein value (KLIC) score for the selection of patients that are likely to benefit from DAIR have proved to be helpful in decision making. Our study aims to further validate the KLIC score using a large external multicentric cohort and to evaluate other risk factors for failure. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with an early acute PJI who were treated with DAIR and recorded in a database of eight Spanish university hospitals was performed. According to pre-operative variables of the KLIC study, patients were categorized into five groups: group A, ≤2 points; group B, 2.5-3.5 points; group C, 4-5 points; group D, 5.5-6.5 points; and group E, ≥7 points. Failure rates were compared between groups at 60 days and after 60 days of DAIR. Further variables for risk of failure were also analyzed. Results: A total of 455 patients with early acute PJI were included in the analyses. At 60 days, patients presenting with pre-operative elevated C-reactive protein serum levels, Staphylococcus aureus, and polymicrobial infections were associated with failure. Failure rates recorded were 12% for group A (n = 210), 18% for group B (n = 83), 26% for group C (n = 89), 24% for group D (n = 66), and 0% for group E (n = 7). Univariable analysis between consecutive groups of the KLIC score showed no differences for failure before 60 days of the DAIR procedure. Scheduled surgery and having the procedure performed by a specialized unit were also identified as important factors for DAIR success. Conclusions: Our results suggest the KLIC score was not useful for predicting failure in our cohort. Furthermore, our results indicate a specialized unit should conduct DAIR procedures.

Irrigation and Debridement With Implant Retention: Does Chronicity of Symptoms Matter?

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a rare, yet devastating complication of total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Chronic infection is generally considered a contraindication to debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR); however, outcomes stratified by chronicity have not been well documented.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all DAIR cases performed at a single institution from 2008 to 2015 was performed. Chronicity of PJI was categorized as acute postoperative, chronic, or acute hematogenous. Failure after DAIR, defined as re-revision for infection recurrence with the same organism, was evaluated between the 3 chronicity groups at 90 days as well as at a minimum 2-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, 248 patients undergoing DAIR for total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty PJI were included. Categorization of PJI was acute (acute postoperative) in 59 cases (24%), chronic in 54 (22%), and acute hematogenous in 135 (54%). DAIR survivorship was 47% (range 0.3-10 years). Overall, there were 118 (47.6%) treatment failures after DAIR with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. There was no difference in failure rate between total hip or total knee arthroplasty patients (P = .07). Patients infected with Staphylococcus conferred a higher risk of failure for all DAIR procedures regardless of chronicity category.

CONCLUSION

Identification of microbial species prior to undertaking DAIR may be more clinically relevant than stratification according to chronicity category when considering treatment options.

Management strategies for prosthetic joint infection: long-term infection control rates, overall survival rates, functional and quality of life outcomes

DAIR (debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention), one-stage and two-stage revision surgery are the most common management strategies for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) management. Our knowledge concerning their efficacy is based on short to medium-term low-quality studies.

Most studies report infection recurrence rates or infection-free time intervals. However, long-term survival rates of the infection-free joints, functional and quality of life outcome data are of paramount importance.

DAIR, one-stage and two-stage revision strategies are not unique surgical techniques, presenting several variables. Infection control rates for the above strategies vary from 75% to 90%, but comparisons are difficult because different indications and patient selection criteria are used in each strategy.

Recent outcome data show that DAIR and one-stage revision in selected patients (based on host, bacteriological, soft tissue and type of infection criteria) may present improved functional and quality of life outcomes and reduced costs for health systems as compared to those of two-stage revision.

It is expected that health system administrators and providers will apply pressure on surgeons and departments towards the wider use of DAIR and one-stage revision strategies. It is the orthopaedic surgeon’s responsibility to conduct quality studies in order to fully clarify the indications and outcomes of the different revision strategies.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:727-734. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.210008

Comparison of the success rate after debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) for periprosthetic joint infection among patients with or without a sinus tract

BACKGROUND

The relevance between the presence of a sinus tract and the failure risk after debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after hip or knee arthroplasty is still unclear. This study aimed to compare the success rate of DAIR between patients with or without a sinus tract and to explore the possible risk factors for failure after DAIR in patients with a sinus tract.

METHODS

Consecutive DAIR cases for PJI after hip or knee arthroplasty between January 2009 and June 2019 with a minimum 1-year follow-up in two tertiary joint arthroplasty centers were included. Patients were classified into the sinus tract group and the non-sinus tract group according to the presence of a sinus tract. The success rate after DAIR were compared using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Potential risk factors for failure in the sinus group were also explored.

RESULTS

One hundred seven patients were included. At a median 4.4 years of follow-up, 19 of 52 (36.5%) cases failed in the sinus tract group, while 15 of 55 (27.3%) cases failed in the non-sinus tract group. The 1-year and 5-year cumulative success rates were 71.2% (95% confidence interval (CI): 59.8-84.6%) and 56.8% (95% CI: 42.6-75.7%) in the sinus tract group, respectively, which were similar to the counterparts in the non-sinus tract group (P = 0.214). Among patients with a sinus tract, DAIR with the exchange of modular components showed a higher success rate (75.8% versus 47.4%, P = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of a sinus tract does not affect the success rate of DAIR. Modular component exchange in DAIR was proposed for patients with a sinus tract for an improved infection control rate.

Cost-effectiveness of Single vs Double Debridement and Implant Retention for Acute Periprosthetic Joint Infections in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Markov Model

Background

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a common cause of revision total knee surgery. Although debridement and implant retention (DAIR) has lower success rates in the chronic setting, it is an accepted treatment of acute PJI, whether postoperatively or with late hematogenous seeding. There are two broad DAIR strategies: single debridement and planned double debridement. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of single vs double DAIR for acute PJI in total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

A decision tree using single or double DAIR as the treatment strategy for acute PJI was constructed. Quality-adjusted life years and costs associated with the two treatment arms were calculated. Treatment success rates, failure rates, and mortality rates were derived from the literature. Medical costs were derived from both the literature and Medicare data. A cost-effectiveness plane was constructed from multiple Monte Carlo trials. A sensitivity analysis identified parameters most influencing the optimal strategy decision.

Results

Double DAIR was the optimal treatment strategy both in terms of the health utility state (82% of trials) and medical cost (97% of trials). Strategy tables demonstrated that as long as the success rate of double debridement is 10% or greater than the success rate of a single debridement, the two-stage protocol is cost-effective.

Conclusions

A double DAIR protocol is more cost-effective than single DAIR from a societal perspective.

Timing of debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) for early post-surgical hip and knee prosthetic joint infection (PJI) does not affect 1-year re-revision rates: data from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register

Debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) is a procedure to treat a periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The timing between the primary procedure and the DAIR is likely a determinant for its successful outcome. However, the optimal timing of a DAIR and the chance of success still remain unclear. We aimed to assess the risk of re-revision within 1 year after a DAIR procedure and to evaluate the timing of the DAIR in primary THA and TKA. We used data from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI) and selected all primary THA and TKA in the period 2007-2016 which underwent a DAIR within 12 weeks after primary procedure. A DAIR was defined as a revision for infection in which only modular parts were exchanged. A DAIR was defined as successful if not followed by a re-revision within 1 year after DAIR; 207 DAIRs were performed < 4  weeks after THA, of which 16 (8 %) received a complete revision within 1 year. DAIR procedures performed between 4 and 12 weeks ( n = 98 ) had a failure rate of 9 % ( n = 9 ). After TKA 126 DAIRs were performed in less than 4  weeks, of which 11 (9 %) received a complete revision within 1 year; 83 DAIRs were performed between 4 and 12 weeks, of which 14 (17 %) were revised. There was no significant difference in 1-year re-revision rate after a DAIR procedure by timing of the DAIR procedure for total hip and knee arthroplasty based on Dutch registry data.

Periprosthetic hip infections in a Swedish regional hospital between 2012 and 2018: is there a relationship between Cutibacterium acnes infections and uncemented prostheses?

The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients requiring in-patient care due to a periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), with respect to bacterial agents, surgical treatment, antibiotics, and outcome. We retrospectively identified all infected total hip arthroplasties (THAs) in a Swedish regional hospital during a 7-year period (2012-2018) and reviewed medical records and microbiological data. A total of 89 infected THAs in 87 patients were identified. Standardized treatment with debridement with retention of the implant and antibiotics (DAIR) was initially performed in 53 cases (60 %), one or two stage revisions in 33 cases (37 %), and an immediate Girdlestone in 3 cases (3 %). Infection eradication was seen in 77 PJIs (87 %) in addition to six patients (7 %) ending up with a permanent but uninfected Girdlestone. All six patients with manifest failures were infected with Staphylococcus aureus, two of which were also polymicrobial. Cutibacterium acnes was found in 18 of 89 patients (16 %) distributed in 15 uncemented implants but only in 3 hybrids and cemented arthroplasties, while remaining pathogens were equally distributed in uncemented THAs ( n = 31 ) and THAs with at least one cemented component ( n = 40 ; p = 0.003 ). Eradication was achieved in all 18 patients when Cutibacterium acnes was the only culture ( n = 14 ) or clearly dominant among positive cultures ( n = 4 ). DAIR was successful in selected postoperative infections up to 6 months after hip replacement. Cutibacterium acnes infections in hip arthroplasty may be underdiagnosed. Cemented components in THAs seem to protect from colonization with Cutibacterium acnes.

Economic burden of surgical management of surgical site infections following hip and knee replacements in Calgary, Alberta, Canada

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cost of 1-stage and 2-stage revisions, debridement, antibiotic and implant retention (DAIR) and DAIR with liner exchange for complex surgical site infections (SSIs) following hip and knee replacements.

DESIGN

Retrospective population-based economic analysis of patients undergoing intervention for SSIs between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2019.

SETTING

The study was conducted in the Calgary zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS) in Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals >18 years with complex SSI following hip or knee replacement.

METHODS

Patients with complex SSIs were identified using the AHS infection prevention and control database. A combination of microcosting and gross costing methods were used to estimate 12- and 24-month costs following the initial hospital admission for arthroplasty. Subgroup, inverse Gaussian and γ regression analyses were used to evaluate the impact of age and comorbidities on cost.

RESULTS

In total, 142 patients with complex SSIs were identified, with a mean age of 66.8 years. Total direct medical costs in United States dollars of 2-stage revisions were ($100,992 (95% CI, 34,587-167,396) at 12 months. The 1-stage revision ($41,176; 95% CI, 23,361-58,991), DAIR with liner exchange ($41,267; 95% CI, 29,923-52,612) and DAIR ($46,605; 95% CI, 15,277-76,844) were associated with fewer costs at 12 months. Age >65 years and chronic complications of diabetes and hypertension were associated with increased costs in subgroup and regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical costs are highest at 12 months and for 2-stage revisions in hip and knee complex SSI cases. Further work should explore surgical outcomes correlated with costs to enhance patient care.

Controversy about the Role of Rifampin in Biofilm Infections: Is It Justified?

Rifampin is a potent antibiotic against staphylococcal implant-associated infections. In the absence of implants, current data suggest against the use of rifampin combinations. In the past decades, abundant preclinical and clinical evidence has accumulated supporting its role in biofilm-related infections.In the present article, experimental data from animal models of foreign-body infections and clinical trials are reviewed. The risk for emergence of rifampin resistance and multiple drug interactions are emphasized. A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) showing no beneficial effect of rifampin in patients with acute staphylococcal periprosthetic joint infection treated with prosthesis retention is critically reviewed and data interpreted. Given the existing strong evidence demonstrating the benefit of rifampin, the conduction of an adequately powered RCT with appropriate definitions and interventions would probably not comply with ethical standards.

One-year infection control rates of a DAIR (debridement, antibiotics and implant retention) procedure after primary and prosthetic-joint-infection-related revision arthroplasty - a retrospective cohort study

Introduction: Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) procedures are effective treatments for acute postoperative or acute hematogenous periprosthetic joint infections. However, literature reporting on the effectiveness of DAIR procedures performed after a one- or two-stage revision because of a prosthetic joint infection (PJI) (PJI-related revision arthroplasty) is scarce. The aim of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the infection control after 1 year of a DAIR procedure in the case of an early postoperative infection either after primary arthroplasty or after PJI-related revision arthroplasty. Materials and methods: All patients treated with a DAIR procedure within 3 months after onset of PJI between 2009 and 2017 were retrospectively included. Data were collected on patient and infection characteristics. All infections were confirmed by applying the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) 2014 criteria. The primary outcome was successful control of infection at 1 year after a DAIR procedure, which was defined as the absence of clinical signs, such as pain, swelling, and erythema; radiological signs, such as protheses loosening; or laboratory signs, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) ( < 10 ) with no use of antibiotic therapy. Results: Sixty-seven patients were treated with a DAIR procedure (41 hips and 26 knees). Successful infection control rates of a DAIR procedure after primary arthroplasty ( n = 51 ) and after prior PJI-related revision arthroplasty ( n = 16 ) were 69 % and 56 %, respectively ( p = 0.38 ). The successful infection control rates of a DAIR procedure after an early acute infection ( n = 35 ) and after a hematogenous infection ( n = 16 ) following primary arthroplasty were both 69 % ( p = 1.00 ). Conclusion: In this limited study population, no statistically significant difference is found in infection control after 1 year between DAIR procedures after primary arthroplasty and PJI-related revision arthroplasty.

Risk factors affect success rate of debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) in periprosthetic joint infection

Background

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is the most devastating complication of joint replacement that seriously affects the quality of life and causes a heavy burden to the families and society. Due to shorter hospital stays, lower costs, improved joint function and less morbidity, a process of debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is recommended as the preferred treatment for acute periprosthetic joint infection. However, the factors that impact the success rate of DAIR remain controversial. This article evaluates the influential factors of DAIR and provides insights for orthopaedics surgeons to make optimal decisions to improve the success rate of DAIR.

Conclusion

The poor general condition of patients, high preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) level, repeated joint surgeries, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections may be associated with lower DAIR success rate. To the contrary, early surgery, radical debridement, exchange of removable components, washing with iodine and vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) may improve the success rate of DAIR. A sinus tract may not be absolutely contraindicated, but surgeons should treat it with caution. As there is no consensus on many issues, more high-quality research is required.

Debridement, Antibiotics, and Implant Retention with the Direct Anterior Approach for Acute Periprosthetic Joint Infection Following Primary THA

Background:

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication following total hip replacement. The direct anterior approach for total hip replacement is becoming increasingly popular. However, little is known about the success rate of treatment with debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) using the direct anterior approach. The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of DAIR using this approach and identify patient and surgical factors that influence the results.

Methods:

Seventy-four patients (75 hips) in whom DAIR had been performed were identified from the records of the weekly multidisciplinary infection meeting and the laboratory information management systems. In 4% (3 hips), modular components were exchanged. To consider competing risks (death), we used competing risk models.

Results:

The competing risk analysis showed a successful outcome after DAIR of 82% at 4 years of follow-up; this rate was 89% at 4 years follow-up when excluding patients managed with gentamicin beads. The sensitivity analysis revealed that obesity (body mass index [BMI] of ≥30 kg/m²), use of gentamicin beads, and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of >40 mm/hr increased the risk of failure.

Conclusions:

DAIR using the direct anterior approach without the routine exchange of modular components offers a success rate that is comparable with other approaches for eradicating acute PJI following primary hip arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Salvage procedure for chronic periprosthetic knee infection: the application of DAIR results in better remission rates and infection-free survivorship when used with topical degradable calcium-based antibiotics

PURPOSE

Debridement, systemic antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is very successful for early periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), but can fail in late-onset cases. We selected patients with PJI who were unsuitable for two-stage exchange total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and compared the outcomes of DAIR with or without degradable calcium-based antibiotics.

METHODS

All patients fulfilled the criteria for late-onset PJI of TKA, as defined by an International Consensus Meeting in 2013, but were unsuitable for multistage procedures and TKA exchange due to operative risk. Fifty-six patients (mean age: 70.6 years, SD ± 10.8), in two historical collectives, were treated using a single-stage algorithm consisting of DAIR without antibiotics (control group, n = 33, 2012-2014), or by DAIR following the implantation of degradable antibiotics as indicated by an antibiogram (intervention group, n = 23, 2014-2017). OSTEOSET^® (admixed vancomycin/tobramycin), and HERAFILL-gentamicin^® were used as carrier systems. The primary endpoint was re-infection or surgical intervention after DAIR.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of mean age, Charlson comorbidity index or the rate of mixed infections. Overall, 65.2% of patients achieved remission in the intervention group compared with only 18.2% in the control group (p < 0.001); 50% of re-infections in the intervention group even occurred after 36 months. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that, compared with controls, the intervention group experienced significantly longer 3-year infection-free survival.

CONCLUSION

DAIR shows poor efficacy in difficult-to-treat cases, as demonstrated in our control group, which had a re-infection rate of 81.8%. In contrast, a DAIR group receiving topical calcium-based antibiotics showed significantly higher 3-year infection-free survival. Therefore, the combination of DAIR and degradable antibiogram-based local antibiotics is a reasonable salvage procedure for this body of patients. This is important as the number of severely sick patients who are too old for appropriate PJI treatment is estimated to increase significantly due to demographic change.

2020 Frank Stinchfield Award: Identifying who will fail following irrigation and debridement for prosthetic joint infection

AIMS

Failure of irrigation and debridement (I&D) for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is influenced by numerous host, surgical, and pathogen-related factors. We aimed to develop and validate a practical, easy-to-use tool based on machine learning that may accurately predict outcome following I&D surgery taking into account the influence of numerous factors.

METHODS

This was an international, multicentre retrospective study of 1,174 revision total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasties (TKA) undergoing I&D for PJI between January 2005 and December 2017. PJI was defined using the Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria. A total of 52 variables including demographics, comorbidities, and clinical and laboratory findings were evaluated using random forest machine learning analysis. The algorithm was then verified through cross-validation.

RESULTS

Of the 1,174 patients that were included in the study, 405 patients (34.5%) failed treatment. Using random forest analysis, an algorithm that provides the probability for failure for each specific patient was created. By order of importance, the ten most important variables associated with failure of I&D were serum CRP levels, positive blood cultures, indication for index arthroplasty other than osteoarthritis, not exchanging the modular components, use of immunosuppressive medication, late acute (haematogenous) infections, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection, overlying skin infection, polymicrobial infection, and older age. The algorithm had good discriminatory capability (area under the curve = 0.74). Cross-validation showed similar probabilities comparing predicted and observed failures indicating high accuracy of the model.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study in the orthopaedic literature to use machine learning as a tool for predicting outcomes following I&D surgery. The developed algorithm provides the medical profession with a tool that can be employed in clinical decision-making and improve patient care. Future studies should aid in further validating this tool on additional cohorts. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7 Supple B):11-19.

The Changing Face of Infection, Diagnosis, and Management in the United Kingdom

Prosthetic joint infection is still a rare but devastating complication following total hip and knee arthroplasty. The incidence of prosthetic joint infection ranges from 2% to 4% in primary procedures as opposed to nearly 20% in revisions. The challenges that arise here include mainly diagnostic uncertainty, management in immunocompromised patients, recurrent infection, infection around a well-fixed implant, and substantial bone loss, and require careful preoperative assessment and well-defined management plans. This article summarizes recent developments in the diagnosis and management of this increasingly prevalent issue specifically focusing on outcomes following debridement, antibiotics, and implants retention and one-stage revision procedures.

Debridement, Antibiotics and Implant Retention for Hip Periprosthetic Joint Infection: Analysis of Implant Survival after Cure of Infection

Background: Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is a valuable option for treating early and acute periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The inflammation caused by the infection and the surgical intervention during DAIR may influence the long-term stability of the implant. In this study, we analyzed the sequelae of DAIR on implant survival in hip PJI after cure of infection.

Methods: Total hip arthroplasties (THAs) from our database implanted between 1992 and 2016 were included in a retrospective double-cohort study. THAs were exposed (DAIR cohort) or not exposed to DAIR (control cohort). The control cohort comprised patients matched 3:1 to the DAIR cohort. The outcome was implant failure over time. It was evaluated for (i) revision for any reason, (ii) aseptic loosening of any component, and (iii) radiographic evidence of loosening.

Results: 57 THAs (56 patients) were included in the DAIR cohort and 170 THAs (168 patients) in the control cohort. The mean follow-up periods in the DAIR and control cohorts were 6.1 and 7.8 years, respectively. During follow-up, 20 (36%) patients in the DAIR cohort and 54 (32%) in the control cohort died after a mean of 4.1 and 7.2 years, respectively. Revision for any reason was performed in 9 (16%) THAs in the DAIR cohort and in 10 (6%) THAs (p=0.03) in the control cohort, and revision for aseptic loosening of any component in 5 (9%) and 8 (5%) THAs (p=0.32), respectively. Radiological analysis included 56 THAs in the DAIR cohort and 168 THAs in the control cohort. Two (4%) stems and 2 (4%) cups in the DAIR cohort and 7 (4%) and 1 (0.6%) in the control cohort, respectively, demonstrated radiological signs of failure (p=1).

Conclusions: THAs exposed to DAIR were revised for any reason more frequently than were THAs in the control cohort. The difference was mainly caused by septic failures. After cure of PJI, the difference in revisions for aseptic loosening was not significant. There was no significant difference in radiographic evidence of loosening of any component between cohorts. These data suggest that cured hip PJI previously exposed to DAIR do not fail more frequently for aseptic reasons than do THAs not exposed to DAIR.

Early Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) in patients with suspected acute infection after hip or knee arthroplasty - safe, effective and without negative functional impact

Introduction: Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is known to be effective in treating acute periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, deciding to perform additional surgery in the early postoperative period may be challenging as there is the concern of adding morbidity and clinical presentation is often subtle. We mean to assess the impact of early DAIR on final functional outcome. Methods: A case-control comparison was performed between patients that underwent DAIR for suspected PJI between 2010-2016 and controls randomly selected (1:2 ratio) from a list of primary joint replacements. Patients were matched for anatomic site, age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, body mass index and follow-up time. The outcome of surgical treatment and complications were assessed and Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) or Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were performed. Results: Thirty-eight cases were included at a mean follow-up of 42 months. Infection was not confirmed in one patient. There was one infection related-death and three other cases of treatment failure that required a two-stage revision. Overall success rate was 89.2%. There were no significant patient reported differences regarding final functional outcome between both groups: pain 91±6 vs. 87±13; other symptoms 90±8 vs. 90±9; activities of day living 86±8 vs. 85±14; sport 63±13 vs. 57±16; quality of life 78±17 vs. 76±16. Discussion: These findings support that DAIR for suspected acute PJI is safe, effective and causes no impact on final functional results. Thus, a low threshold for assuming infection and subsequent DAIR may safely be adopted in the early postoperative period.

Is cemented revision total hip arthroplasty a reasonable treatment option in an elderly population?

Revision THA is increasingly performed especially in the elderly population. The surgeon’s challenge is to provide a solution that supports immediate full weight-bearing, despite poor bone quality. Shape-closed revision stems facilitate that by combining cement fixation with additional press-fit anchoring. The design tolerates varying cement mantle thickness and inconsistent cancellous bone lining of the femoral canal. Following that philosophy, we present our mid-term results using a long version of a cemented Charnley- Kerboull type stem. From 2010 to 2017, 38 long Charnley-Kerboull revision stems (Centris^®, Mathys European Orthopaedics, Bettlach, Switzerland) were implanted and followed prospectively. Surgery was performed via a Hardinge approach in supine position with a third generation cementing technique. Patients were mobilized using full-weight bearing as early as possible. Survival was determined for stem revision for aseptic loosening and stem and/or cup revision for any reason. 20 stems had a minimum follow-up (f/u) of 2 years and were included for further radiological analysis. Detailed subsidence analysis as an early predictor for later aseptic loosening was performed using EBRA-FCA software. Further, the presence of osteolysis and cement debonding was evaluated. Mean follow- up was 4 years. No patient was lost to f/u.18 died of causes unrelated to THA. Stem survival was 100%. Survival for any re-operation was 82.2% (two early infections, one soft-tissue debridement, one cup exchange for recurrent dislocations). None of the cases revised for septic loosening showed signs of persistent infection at final f/u. EBRA-FCA revealed two oligosymptomatic cases of subsidence of 5mm and 6mm over a course of 2 and 12 months, respectively, with stable implants thereafter. Neither required revision. There was no development of osteolysis or debonding. The stem provides a reliable early fullweight bearing solution for revision THA with excellent mid-term survival in an elderly population. Even in two cases where subsidence was present, mobility was not impaired and re-revision could be avoided.

Debridement, Antibiotics and Implant Retention for Early Periprosthetic Infections of the Hip: Outcomes and Influencing Factors

Purpose

Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is commonly performed and widely accepted for the treatment of acute infections following hip arthroplasty. The aims of this study were to: i) determine the DAIR success rate in treating acute postoperative and hematogenous periprosthetic infections of the hip at a tertiary hospital, ii) identify possible outcome predictors, and iii) analyze clinical and radiological outcomes.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed cases of acute postoperative (≤3 months from index procedure) and hematogenous periprosthetic infections following total hip arthroplasty treated with DAIR at our hospital between 2004 and 2015. Overall, 26 hips (25 patients) were included in the study, with a mean age of 72.5 years (standard deviation [SD], 9.4). The mean follow-up was 48.5 months (SD, 43.7). Several variables (e.g., patient characteristics, infection type, surgery parameters) were examined to evaluate their influence on outcomes; functional and radiographic outcomes were assessed.

Results

The overall success rate of DAIR was 26.9%. The male sex was associated with treatment failure (P=0.005) and debridement performed by a surgeon in hip unit with success (P=0.028). DAIR failure increased in patients with chronic pulmonary disease (P=0.059) and steroid therapy (P=0.062). Symptom duration of <11 days until DAIR yielded a better infection eradication rate (P=0.068). The mean postoperative Harris Hip Score was 74.2 (SD, 16.6).

Conclusion

DAIR, despite being used frequently, had a high failure rate in our series. Outcomes improved if an experienced hip arthroplasty surgeon performed the surgery. Patient comorbidities and symptom duration should be considered for decision-making.

Periprosthetic joint infection: current concepts and outlook

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious complication occurring in 1% to 2% of primary arthroplasties, which is associated with high morbidity and need for complex interdisciplinary treatment strategies.

The challenge in the management of PJI is the persistence of micro-organisms on the implant surface in the form of biofilm. Understanding this ability, the phases of biofilm formation, antimicrobial susceptibility and the limitations of host local immune response allows an individual choice of the most suitable treatment.

By using diagnostic methods for biofilm detection such as sonication, the sensitivity for diagnosing PJI is increasing, especially in chronic infections caused by low-virulence pathogens.

The use of biofilm-active antibiotics enables eradication of micro-organisms in the presence of a foreign body. The total duration of antibiotic treatment following revision surgery should not exceed 12 weeks.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:482-494. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180092

Two-Stage Debridement With Prosthesis Retention for Acute Periprosthetic Joint Infections

BACKGROUND

Historically, infection control rates with debridement and component retention have been poor in the management of acute prosthetic joint infections. We previously described a 2-stage debridement with prosthesis retention protocol for acute periprosthetic joint infection and reported a 90% success rate in a sample of 20 patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 83 patients who underwent a 2-stage debridement with implant retention with a minimum 1-year follow-up was performed. Patient data were primarily analyzed to determine infection control rates. Infections were considered controlled when patients had not undergone a reoperation for infection, and demonstrated lack of any clinical signs or symptoms of infection (a well healed wound, diminishing swelling and warmth, absence of erythema, improvement in baseline pain symptoms) A secondary goal of this study was to examine the effects of symptom duration on infection control rate.

RESULTS

Average patient follow-up was 41.8 months (range 12-171) for all patients. The overall protocol success rate was 86.7% (72/83): 82.9% in hips and 89.6% in knees. Additionally, protocol success was observed in 45 of 48 primary joints (93.8%) and 27 of 35 (77.1%) revision joints (P = .046). Average time from onset of symptoms to surgery was 6.2 days for successfully treated patients (range 0-27 days) compared to 10.7 days for those who failed treatment (range 1-28 days, P = .070).

CONCLUSION

This 2-stage retention protocol resulted in a higher likelihood of infection control compared to prior reports of single stage debridement and modular part exchange.

The Benefice of Mobile Parts' Exchange in the Management of Infected Total Joint Arthroplasties with Prosthesis Retention (DAIR Procedure)

Background: The management of prosthetic joint infections (PJI) with debridement and retention of the implant (DAIR) has its rules. Some authors claim that lacking the exchange of mobile prosthetic parts is doomed to failure, while others regard it as optional. Methods: Single-center retrospective cohort in PJIs treated with DAIR. Results: We included 112 PJIs (69 total hip arthroplasties, 9 medullary hip prostheses, 41 total knee arthroplasties, and 1 total shoulder arthroplasty) in 112 patients (median age 75 years, 52 females (46%), 31 (28%) immune-suppressed) and performed a DAIR procedure in all cases—48 (43%) with exchange of mobile parts and 64 without. After a median follow-up of 3.3 years, 94 patients (84%) remained in remission. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, remission was unrelated to PJI localization, pathogens, number of surgical lavages, duration of total antibiotic treatment or intravenous therapy, choice of antibiotic agents, immune-suppression, or age. In contrast, the exchange of mobile parts was protective (hazard ratio 1.9; 95% confidence interval 1.2–2.9). Conclusions: In our retrospective single-center cohort, changing mobile parts of PJI during the DAIR approach almost doubled the probability for long-term remission.

Role of Rifampin against Staphylococcal Biofilm Infections In Vitro, in Animal Models, and in Orthopedic-Device-Related Infections

Rifampin has been used as an agent in combination therapy in orthopedic device-related infections (ODRI) for almost three decades. The aim of this review is to provide data regarding the role of rifampin against biofilm infection in vitro, in animal models, and in clinical ODRI. Available data are gathered in order to present the rational use of rifampin combinations in patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The role of rifampin is well defined in patients with PJI and is indicated in those who fulfill the Infectious Diseases Society of America criteria for debridement and implant retention or one-stage exchange. It should be used with care because of the danger of rapid emergence of resistance. Potential drug interactions should be considered.

Meta-analysis of sonicate fluid in blood culture bottles for diagnosing periprosthetic joint infection

Introduction: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is the most serious complication after arthroplasty, and the diagnosis of PJI is still challenging with modern medical technology. To improve the diagnostic rate, combined diagnostic methods are gradually beginning to be used to diagnose PJI. Sonication is one accurate way to diagnose PJI, but there is minimal research regarding the diagnostic value of sonicate fluid (SF) in blood culture bottles (BCB). Therefore, we evaluated this combined diagnostic method by meta-analysis. Methods: We searched English publications in electronic databases regarding the use of sonicate fluid in blood culture bottles (SF-BCB) for diagnosing PJI, screened the literature according to inclusion criteria, assessed the quality of the selected literature, and collected information regarding SF-BCB. Results: This meta-analysis includes 4 studies that evaluated SF-BCB for the diagnosis of PJI. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR) and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) are 0.85 (95% Confidence interval [CI], 0.77 to 0.91), 0.86 (CI, 0.81 to 0.91), 5.34 (CI, 3.13 to 9.11), 0.16 (CI, 0.06 to 0.48) and 39.01 (CI, 9.04 to 168.35), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) of the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) is 0.9186 (standard error, 0.0205). Conclusion: SF-BCB has great value for the microbiological diagnosis of PJ, especially for patients with prior antibiotic treatment.

Indications and Guidelines for Debridement and Implant Retention for Periprosthetic Hip and Knee Infection

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Prosthetic joint infection is one the most common causes of revision surgery after hip or knee replacement. Debridement and implant retention (DAIR) is one method of treating these infections; however, significant controversy exists. The purpose of our review was to describe current knowledge about indications, intraoperative/postoperative patient management, and outcomes of DAIR.

RECENT FINDINGS

Patient selection affects the success of DAIR. Medical comorbidities, duration of symptoms, and nature of infectious organism all influence outcomes. Intraoperative techniques such as open arthrotomy, extensive debridement, copious irrigation, and exchange of modular parts remain current standards for DAIR. Postoperative administration of antibiotics tailored to operative cultures remains critical. Antibiotic suppression may increase the success of DAIR. DAIR provides reasonable infection eradication between 50 and 80% with improved outcomes in appropriately selected patients. More research is needed on the use of adjuvant therapies intraoperatively and the role of postoperative antibiotic suppression.

Procedure for single-stage implant retention for chronic periprosthetic infection using topical degradable calcium-based antibiotics

INTRODUCTION

Surgical treatment using DAIR (debridement, systemic antibiotics, and implant retention) can lead to high rates of treatment success in cases of early periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) but can fail in late-onset cases. Supplementary local antibiotic therapy is not yet generally established and lacks evidence-based proof of efficacy. The aim of this study was to analyze DAIR outcomes in recurrent PJI cases and patients who are not suitable for a two-stage exchange, using additional degradable calcium-based antibiotics.

METHODS

All patients fulfilled the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidelines for chronic late-onset PJI but were not suitable for a multistage procedure because of their individual operation risk. A total of 42 patients (mean age, 73 years) were treated using a single-stage algorithm consisting of DAIR, followed by implantation of degradable antibiotics chosen in accordance with an antibiogram. OSTEOSET® (admixed ceftriaxone/vancomycin/tobramycin) and Herafill-Gentamycin® were used as carrier systems. The follow-up period was 23 months (± SD, 10.3). The study is based on institutional review board (IRB) approval.

RESULTS

The clinical entities were chronic PJI of the hip (45.2%), knee (28.6%), and knee arthrodesis (26.2%). The bacterial spectrum was composed of Staphylococcus epidermidis (29%), Staphylococcus aureus (21%), and Enterococcus faecalis (21%). 21.4% showed a combination of two or more bacteria. In 73.8%, permanent remission was achieved, while 11.9% showed chronic PJI under implant retention. Implant retention could be achieved in 85.7%.

CONCLUSION

DAIR usually shows low levels of success in difficult-to-treat cases. However, we could demonstrate the successful treatment of patients with recurrent PJI (typically considered DAIR-inappropriate) using degradable antibiogram-based topical calcium-based antibiotics. Over 70% of the cases went to remission and over 85% of the implants could be retained.

Patient claims in prosthetic hip infections: a comparison of nationwide incidence in Sweden and patient insurance data

Background and purpose - Patients in Sweden are insured against avoidable patient injuries. Prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) resulting from intraoperative contamination are regarded as compensable by the Swedish public insurance system. According to the Patient Injury Act, healthcare personnel must inform patients about any injury resulting from treatment and the possibility of filing a claim. To analyze any under-reporting of claims and their outcome, we investigated patients' claims of PJI in a nationwide setting Patients and methods - The national cohort of PJI after primary total hip replacement, initially operated between 2005 and 2008, was established through cross-matching of registers and review of individual medical records. We analyzed 441 PJIs and the number of filed patients' claims, with regards to incidence, outcome, and any national, sex-linked or socioeconomic differences. Results - We identified 329/441 (75%) patients with PJIs as non-claimants. 96% of the filed claims were accepted. 64 (57%) of claimants sustained permanent disability. 2 factors were found to statistically significantly reduce the odds of filing claims: patient's age above 73 years and fracture as indication for surgery. There were no significant national, sex-linked, or socioeconomic differences. Interpretation - The incidence of patients' claims of PJI is low but claims are usually accepted when filed. Healthcare personnel should increase their knowledge of the Patient Injury Act to inform patients about possibilities of eligible compensation.

Second-site prosthetic joint infection in patients with multiple prosthetic joints

INTRODUCTION

Prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are among the most serious complications in arthroplasty. A second-site PJI in patients with multiple prosthetic joints increases morbidity, with many requiring further revision procedures. We aimed to establish why some patients with multiple joints develop second-site infections.

METHODS

Our institution's arthroplasty database was reviewed from 2004 to 2017. All PJIs were identified, and all patients with more than one prosthetic joint in situ were included. We recorded risk factors, causative organisms, number of procedures and length of stay.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients meeting the criteria were identified. Four patients (9.1%) developed second-site infection. Eight patients (18.2%) developed re-infection of the primary PJI. Positive MRSA carrier status and PJI of a total knee replacement were associated with an increased risk of a second episode of infection. Patients who developed further infection had more frequent admission and longer lengths of stay than isolated PJIs.

DISCUSSION

Higher morbidity and use of hospital resources are associated with this cohort of patients. PJIs in total knee replacements and positive MRSA status are associated with higher rates of second infection. Identifying this vulnerable cohort of patients at an early stage is critical to ensure measures are taken to reduce the risks of further infection.

Revision for prosthetic joint infection following hip arthroplasty: Evidence from the National Joint Registry

Objectives

We used the National Joint Registry for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man (NJR) to investigate the risk of revision due to prosthetic joint infection (PJI) for patients undergoing primary and revision hip arthroplasty, the changes in risk over time, and the overall burden created by PJI.

Methods

We analysed revision total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed due to a diagnosis of PJI and the linked index procedures recorded in the NJR between 2003 and 2014. The cohort analysed consisted of 623 253 index primary hip arthroplasties, 63 222 index revision hip arthroplasties and 7585 revision THAs performed due to a diagnosis of PJI. The prevalence, cumulative incidence functions and the burden of PJI (total procedures) were calculated. Overall linear trends were investigated with log-linear regression.

Results

We demonstrated a prevalence of revision THA due to prosthetic joint infection of 0.4/100 procedures following primary and 1.6/100 procedures following revision hip arthroplasty. The prevalence of revision due to PJI in the three months following primary hip arthroplasty has risen 2.3-fold (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3 to 4.1) between 2005 and 2013, and 3.0-fold (95% CI 1.1 to 8.5) following revision hip arthroplasty. Over 1000 procedures are performed annually as a consequence of hip PJI, an increase of 2.6-fold between 2005 and 2013.

Conclusions

Although the risk of revision due to PJI following hip arthroplasty is low, it is rising and, coupled with the established and further predicted increased incidence of both primary and revision hip arthroplasty, this represents a growing and substantial treatment burden.

Cite this article: E. Lenguerrand, M. R. Whitehouse, A. D. Beswick, S. A. Jones, M. L. Porter, A. W. Blom. Revision for prosthetic joint infection following hip arthroplasty: Evidence from the National Joint Registry. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:391–398. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.66.BJR-2017-0003.R1.