Proceedings of the International Consensus on Periprosthetic Joint Infection

TLDR

Periprosthetic joint infection remains a persistent challenge despite antibiotics and sterile techniques, with widespread variation in prevention and treatment practices due to limited high‑level evidence. The paper aims to summarize the instigation, conduct, and findings of a recent International Consensus Meeting on surgical site and periprosthetic joint infection. It reviews the meeting’s organization, methodology, and outcomes. Citation: Bone Joint J 2013;95‑B:1450–2.

Abstract

Louis Pasteur once said that: “Fortune favours the prepared mind.” As one of the great scientists who contributed to the fight against infection, he emphasised the importance of being prepared at all times to recognise infection and deal with it. Despite the many scientific discoveries and technological advances, such as the advent of antibiotics and the use of sterile techniques, infection continues to be a problem that haunts orthopaedic surgeons and inflicts suffering on patients. The medical community has implemented many practices with the intention of preventing infection and treating it effectively when it occurs. Although high-level evidence may support some of these practices, many are based on little to no scientific foundation. Thus, around the world, there is great variation in practices for the prevention and management of periprosthetic joint infection. This paper summaries the instigation, conduct and findings of a recent International Consensus Meeting on Surgical Site and Periprosthetic Joint Infection. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1450–2.