Cultures in Periprosthetic Joint Infections, the Imperfect Gold Standard?

Overview

Journal EFORT Open Rev

Specialty Orthopedics

Date 2023 Apr 25

PMID 37097061

Authors

Marjan Wouthuyzen-Bakker

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Culture-negative periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) are commonly described in the literature. By implementing a routine diagnostic workup and by optimizing tissue sampling and processing, the culture-negative rate can easily be reduced. When faced with a culture-negative PJI, several serological and molecular techniques are available that may aid in finding the causative microorganism. Clinical clues may guide the treating physician towards more atypical and rare microorganisms. A multidisciplinary team consisting of orthopaedic surgeons, microbiologists and infectious disease specialist are warranted in tailoring diagnostic testing and deciding on the surgical and antibiotic treatment approach.

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