2-stage Revision Research Articles

Comparing Articulating Spacers for Periprosthetic Joint Infection After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: All-Cement Versus Real-Component Articulating Spacers.

There are a variety of methods available to treat periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), including 2-stage revision with the use of an antibiotic spacer. This study compares the outcomes of real-component (RC) and all-cement (AC) articulating spacers for total hip arthroplasty (THA) PJI treatment. This multicenter retrospective study assessed all articulating spacers placed for THA PJI between April 2011 and August 2020. Patients were dichotomized based on spacer type (RC vs AC). One hundred four patients received articulating spacer constructs (RC group= 75, AC group= 29). Leg-length discrepancy was significantly greater in the AC group after the second stage (3.58 vs 12.00 mm, P= .023). There were no significant differences in reoperation rates following first-stage spacer placement (P= .752) and time to reimplantation (P= .127) between the groups. There were no significant differences in reinfection rates (RC group= 10.0%, AC group= 7.1%, P= 1.000) and reoperation rates following second-stage revision THA (RC group= 11.7%, AC group= 10.7%, P= 1.000). Hospital length of stay (in days) had a trend toward being shorter following the first (7.35 vs 11.96, P= .166) and second stage (3.95 vs 5.43, P= .107) for patients in the RC group. Patients in the RC group were more likely to be discharged home following the first (P= .020) and second (P= .039) stages. Given that there were no differences in reinfection and reoperation rates between the 2 spacer constructs, RC articulating spacers may provide a significant benefit for patient comfort during 2-stage exchange treatment of PJI while adding no increase in risk profile.

Assessment of Microbiological and Clinical Findings of Two-Stage Revision Arthroplasty Performed Due to Prosthetic Joint Infection.

Two-stage revision arthroplasty remains the main surgical strategy for the treatment of prosthetic joint infections (PJI). Sonicate fluid culture has improved sensitivity compared to standard periprosthetic tissue culture, but its usefulness is questionable during the second stage of revision arthroplasty. Twenty-seven patients with prosthetic joint infection were investigated. Tissue and sonicate fluid cultures were examined to detect bacteria on the removed spacer during the second stage of exchange arthroplasty. Microbiological findings were analyzed and patients were assessed within an average of 5 years follow up. Tissue cultures in second-stage revision arthroplasties were positive in 6/27 cases (22.2%) growing CNS in 4 cases (14.8%), Staphylococcus aureus in 1 case (3.7%), and Enterococcus faecalis in 1 case (3.7%). In 3 cases (11.1%) infection was identified as a result of a sonication procedure. Clinical failures at final follow-up were recorded in 4 (14.8%) patients, with reinfection noted in 3 of them. Arthrodesis and spacer exchange followed by suppressive antibiotic therapy were performed in 2 cases. 1. Tissue cultures remain the gold standard in diagnosis of PIJ although a negative culture does not rule out the presence of bacteria on spacers removed during second stage revision for PJI. 2. Sonication appears to have limited ability to detect persistent infection before reimplantation and was not associated with recurrent infection; however, it can be considered a complementary method that could make it possible to identify new microorganisms and facilitate the selection of appropriate treatment options. 3. The positive results of sonication should be interpreted as the detection of actual pathogens in the light of the clinical, microbiological and histopathological data, especially for patients with immunodeficiency.

Combined Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction

There has been a substantial increase in the number of revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions performed in the past decade. This Technical Note describes combined revision ACL and anterolateral ligament reconstruction using outside-in drilling, which avoids the need for 2-stage revision ACL reconstruction because it allows unconstrained anatomic placement.

Role of joint aspiration before re-implantation in patients with a cement spacer in place.

BACKGROUNDThe usefulness of a mandatory joint aspiration before re-implantation in patients with a cement spacer already in place is unclear.AIMTo evaluate the role of culturing synovial fluid obtained by joint aspiration before re-implantation in patients who underwent a two-stage septic revision.METHODSA retrospective observational study was conducted, including patients that underwent a two-stage septic revision (hip or knee) from 2010 to 2017. After the first stage revision and according to intraoperative culture results, all patients were treated with an antibiotic protocol for 6-8 wk. Following 2 wk without antibiotics, a culture of synovial fluid was obtained. The results of these cultures were recorded and compared with cultures obtained during re-implantation surgery.RESULTSForty-one patients (20 hip and 21 knee spacers) were included in the final analysis. In 39 cases, the culture of synovial fluid was negative, while in the remaining 2 cases (knee spacers) no analysis was possible due to dry tap. In 5 of the patients, two or more intraoperative cultures taken during the re-implantation surgery were positive.CONCLUSIONWe found no evidence to support mandatory joint aspiration before re-implantation in patients with a cement spacer in place.

Survivorship of Metaphyseal Cones and Sleeves in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Bone loss remains an anticipated challenge in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). Recent efforts to enhance rTKA fixation and stability have focused on metaphyseal implants, namely cones and sleeves. We sought to compare cone and sleeve implant survivorship in rTKA. One hundred eighty patients who underwent rTKA with metaphyseal implants from 2005 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 83 cones (22 femoral, 62 tibial) and 121 sleeves (58 femoral, 63 tibial) were identified. The mean age at the time of surgery was 72 years (range 43-97). Intraoperative Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute bone loss classifications included the following: type 2A (25), type 2B (98), and type 3 (81). Mean follow-up was 41 months. Revision-free survival for cones was 91.3% vs 92.2% for sleeves (P= .29). Twelve knees (4 cones, 8 sleeves) underwent irrigation, debridement, and polyethylene exchange with metaphyseal implant retention for acute postoperative periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Development of chronic PJI warranted removal of 7 cones (8.4%), 6 of which were initially placed as part of a 2-stage revision TKA. Eight sleeves (6.6%) were removed for PJI, with all initially placed during a second stage reimplantation. In the absence of infection, survival was 100% and 99.1% for cones and sleeves, respectively. One sleeve was revised for periprosthetic fracture. Metaphyseal cones and sleeves offer equally durable survivorship in revision TKA. PJI was the most common mode of implant failure in this series. Importantly, no cases of cone or sleeve aseptic loosening were observed.

Retrospective Study from a Single Center to Identify Risk Factors Associated with Reinfection in Patients Undergoing 2-Stage Revision Surgery for Periprosthetic Joint Infection.

BackgroundThis study identified risk factors associated with reinfection and created a scoring system designed for patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) who have undergone prosthetic resection and spacer implantation.Material/MethodsPatients who underwent 2-stage revision for PJI from January 2010 to December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Patients were divided into 2 groups: infection recurrence and infection cure. Demographic and clinical information, laboratory test results, and radiological images that were potentially associated with infection were obtained and analyzed.ResultsSeven independent risk (protective) factors for infection recurrence in patients with PJI who underwent 2-stage hip revision surgery were identified: C-reactive protein level, type of bacterial infection, age, immunosuppression, albumin/globulin ratio, glucose level, and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Finally, a weighted scoring system of 100-mark system was established and the area under the curve was 0.965 (95% confidential interval=0.947–0.983). The predictive scores for low risk (≤30%), moderate risk (31–69%), and high risk (≥70%) of infection recurrence were ≤45, 46–77, and ≥78, respectively.ConclusionsFor patients with PJI who had already undergone joint resection and spacer implantation, this newly established scoring system might help determine the accurate risk of infection recurrence after a definitive new prosthesis implantation. Patients with scores greater than 78 points would be considered very likely to have an infection recurrence. Therefore, the second-stage revision surgery should be changed to an additional anti-infection treatment or a debridement surgery instead of a definitive prosthesis implantation surgery.

Is There Harm in Debridement, Antibiotics, and Implant Retention Versus Two-Stage Revision in the Treatment of Periprosthetic Knee Infection? Experiences Within a Large US Health Care System

BackgroundWhen faced with a periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total knee arthroplasty, the treating surgeon must determine whether 2-stage revision or “liner exchange,” aka debridement, antibiotics, exchange of the modular polyethylene liner, and retention of fixed implants (DAIR), offers the best balance of infection eradication versus treatment morbidity. We sought to determine septic re-revision risk following DAIR compared to initial 2-stage revision. MethodsWe conducted a cohort study using data from Kaiser Permanente's total joint replacement registry. Primary total knee arthroplasty patients who went on to have a PJI treated by DAIR or 2-stage revision were included (2005-2018). Propensity score–weighted Cox regression was used to evaluate risk for septic re-revision. ResultsIn total, 1,410 PJIs were included, 1,000 (70.9%) treated with DAIR. Applying propensity score weights, patients undergoing DAIR had a higher risk for septic re-revision compared to initial 2-stage procedures (hazard ratio 3.09, 95% CI 2.22-4.42). Of DAIR procedures, 150 failed (15%) and went on to subsequent 2-stage revision (DAIR-F). When compared to patients undergoing an initial 2-stage revision, we failed to observe a difference in septic re-revision risk following DAIR-F (hazard ratio 1.11, 95% CI 0.58-2.12). ConclusionAlthough DAIR had a higher risk of septic re-revision, we failed to observe a difference in risk following DAIR-F when compared to those who initially underwent 2-stage revision. Functional outcome, patient, and organism factors are important to consider when discussing PJI management options. Level of EvidenceLevel III.

Abstract #1182064: Recurrent Hypercalcemia Following Calcium Sulfate Bead Placement

Stimulan® (Smith & Nephew) beads are antibiotic-loaded calcium sulfate beads (CSB) that are used to prevent and treat joint infections intraoperatively. They are used to prevent systemic toxicity of oral and intravenous (IV) antibiotics and can also be used as bone void fillers. We present a case of recurrent transient hypercalcemia due to calcium sulfate beads leading to prolonged hospitalization and IV bisphosphonate treatment. A 65-year-old female with chronic kidney disease (stage 3b) and no prior calcium disorder presented to her orthopedic surgeon with severe osteoarthritis in her left hip after having failed multiple non-surgical interventions. She subsequently underwent left total hip arthroplasty (THA) that was complicated by a prosthetic joint infection requiring THA revision for which she received 10 cc of CSB in the hip joint during the 1st stage revision surgery. On post-operative day 3, her calcium level rapidly increased from 8.3 to 12.6 mg/dL. She was treated with intravenous fluids for dehydration with resolution of hypercalcemia and discharged home. One month later, she was admitted for revision of left THA with insertion of CSB. On post-operative day 3, her calcium increased from 9.3 to 13.8 mg/dL requiring fluids and calcitonin with suspicion that CSB may be the etiology. Two months later, she was admitted with polymicrobial drug resistant infection of the left hip. She underwent another left THA revision with insertion of 20 cc of CSB beads instead of the 10 cc kits previously used. Once again, on post-operative day 3, her calcium levels increased from 8.2 to 14.5 mg/dL. At this time, she was treated with intravenous fluids, calcitonin and 60mg IV pamidronate. Hypercalcemia workup did not show another etiology for hypercalcemia with a suppressed PTH level and normal PTH-related peptide, 25-hydroxy and 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D levels. Kidney function was at baseline during each admission. The patient endorsed fatigue and constipation. As highlighted above, each episode of hypercalcemia peaked on post-operative day three and resolved within one week. When 20 cc of CSB were used, the peak calcium was more severe necessitating IV bisphosphonate therapy. CSB were not used in subsequent surgical revisions resulting in normal calcium levels. While CSB-induced hypercalcemia has been reported, this case highlights the importance of recognizing this entity and being aware that susceptible patients may be more likely to have recurrence with re-use. Pre- and post-CSB calcium levels should be measured in patients who receive CSB and they should be used at the minimum effective dose. Treatment of CSB-induced hypercalcemia may be considered when hypercalcemia is severe.

An Antibiotic-Loaded Hydrogel Demonstrates Efficacy as Prophylaxis and Treatment in a Large Animal Model of Orthopaedic Device-Related Infection.

Local antibiotic therapy is increasingly being recognised for its role in preventing and treating orthopaedic device-related infection (ODRI). A bioresorbable, injectable gentamicin-loaded hydrogel has been developed to deliver local antibiotics at the time of surgery with potential for both prevention and treatment of ODRI. In a prophylaxis model, the antibiotic hydrogel was compared with systemic perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis alone in twelve sheep (six per group) at the time of intramedullary (IM) nail insertion to the tibia, which was inoculated with methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). In a treatment model of single-stage revision surgery, adjunctive antibiotic-loaded hydrogel was compared with systemic antibiotics alone in a single stage revision of MSSA infection associated with a tibia intramedullary nail in eleven sheep (five/six per group). The primary endpoint was quantitative microbiological results of soft tissue, bone and sonicate fluid from explanted hardware at the time of euthanasia. At euthanasia, the control sheep that received no local antibiotics in the prophylaxis model were all culture-positive (median 1x108, range 7x106-3x108 colony forming units, CFU) while only two of six sheep receiving local gentamicin had any culture positive biopsies (median 1x101, range 0 - 1x105 CFU). For the treatment model, sheep receiving only systemic antibiotics were all culture-positive (median 8x105, range 2x103- 9x106 CFU) while only two of six sheep treated with gentamicin-loaded hydrogel had any culture positive biopsies (median 3x102, range 0 - 7x104 CFU). Local gentamicin concentrations measured in extracellular fluid in the tibial canal show a burst release of gentamicin from the hydrogel. Serum gentamicin concentrations peaked in both models at one day post application and were below detection limit thereafter. This study has demonstrated the effective use of a locally delivered antibiotic hydrogel for both the prevention and treatment of ODRI that is superior to that of systemic antibiotics alone. Future studies will endeavour to translate from preclinical to clinical research trials.

The role of synovial fluid aspiration in shoulder joint infections

BackgroundJoint aspiration with analysis of synovial fluid white blood cell count (WBC) and microbiological culture is a widely established aspect in the diagnosis of shoulder joint infections (SJI). In case of a two stage revision for SJI, joint aspiration before re−/implantation of a total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) was used to rule out persistent infection for years but its value is under debate. Shoulder specific data on all aspects is rare. The current study aims to answer the following research questions: Does joint aspiration have an insufficient predictive value in the diagnosis of SJI in (1) initial workup and (2) before definite arthroplasty with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-Spacer in place?MethodsThis retrospective evaluation investigates 35 patients that were treated for SJI with a two staged implantation of a TSA after debridement and implantation of an PMMA-Spacer. Joint aspirations were performed preoperatively (PA) and before re−/implantation of the prosthesis while spacer was in place (interstage aspiration, IA). Samples were taken for microbiological culture and analysis of WBC. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated with reference to intraoperative microbiological samples. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC), Area-Under-Curve analysis (AUC) and calculation of the Youden index were performed to find optimum cut-off for WBC.ResultsThe sensitivity of microbiological cultures from PA was 58.3% and the specificity was 88.9%. The mean WBC was 27,800 leucocytes/mm3 (range 400-96,300). The maximum Youden index (0.857) was a cut-off of 2600 leucocytes/mm3 with a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 100.0%. The sensitivity and specificity of IA were 0.0% and 88.5%, respectively.ConclusionsPreoperative aspiration is likely to miss Cutibacteria spp. and CoNS and cannot rule out infection for sure. However, we recommend it for its advantages of targeted antibiotic therapy in case of germ identification. Empiric antibiotic therapy should cover Cutibacteria and CoNS even if aspiration showed negative microbiological cultures. In contrast, the diagnostic value of interstage aspiration does not qualify for its routine use.

Extended trochanteric osteotomy in revision hip arthroplasty: a case series study and systematic literature review

BackgroundExtended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO) in revision hip arthroplasty provides direct access to the femoral medullary canal and facilitates removal of implants and re-implantation. This study looks at objective outcomes of ETO from a systematic review of the literature and a case series of revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) cases with ETOs from the authors’ local institution.Methods(1) The National Institutes of Health (NIH) national library of medicine was searched for studies related to ETO and the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) technique were followed.(2) Case series of 23 revision THAs with ETOs from University College London Hospital (UCLH) were retrospectively analyzed with a minimum of 2-year follow-up for radiological outcomes.Results(1) The main revision THAs diagnoses were aseptic loosening (880/1,386; 63.4%), prosthetic joint infection (PJI) (301/1,386; 21.7%) and periprosthetic THA fractures (78/1,386; 5.6%). Other diagnoses, including non-specified reasons for THA revision in the chosen studies, accounted for 9.2% (127/1,386). The total mean was a union rate of 95.2%, an infection eradication rate of 91.6%, a femoral stem subsidence rate of 16.6%, with the rate of subsidence more than 5 mm being 10.7%. ETO proximal migration was reported in 7.8% of ETOs; however, it rarely required re-attachment (0.9%). Intraoperative fracture during revision THA with ETO was reported to be at a rate of 5%; while postoperative femoral fracture rate was at 7.8%.(2) All 24 cases had radiographic union at 3 to 6 months and there was no reported femoral stem subsidence.ConclusionThe overall outcome of this literature review provides moderate-quality evidence indicating that ETO provides safe outcome for revision THAs in single and 2-stage revision surgeries with low ETO non-union, femoral stem subsidence, greater trochanter (GT) proximal migration and fracture rates in the different diagnoses groups of revision THA at over 2-year follow up. In the case series group, there was radiographic union of all ETOs with no reported femoral stem subsidence or periprosthetic fractures.

Time Required for Planned and Unplanned Episodes of Care in Septic Two-Stage Revision Hip and Knee Arthroplasty.

Septic revision total hip (rTHA) and knee (rTKA) arthroplasty requires more effort but is reimbursed less than primary procedures per minute of intraoperative time. This study quantified planned and unplanned work performed by the surgical team for septic 2-stage revision surgeries during the entire episode-of-care "reimbursement window" and compared that time to allowable reimbursement amounts. Between October 2010 and December 2020 all unilateral septic 2-stage rTHA and rTKA procedures performed by a single surgeon at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Time dedicated to planned work was calculated over each episode of care, from surgery scheduling to 90 days postoperatively. Impromptu patient inquiries and treatments after discharge, but within the episode of care, involving the surgeon/surgeon team constituted unplanned work. Planned and unplanned work minutes were summed and divided by the number of patients reviewed to obtain average minutes of work per patient. Sixty-eight hips and 64 knees were included. For 2-stage rTHA and rTKA the average time per patient for planned care was 1728 and 1716minutes and for unplanned care was 339 and 237minutes. Compared to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' allowable reimbursement times, an additional 799 and 887minutes of uncompensated time was required to care for 2-stage rTHA and rTKA patients. Two-stage revision procedures are substantially more complex than primary procedures. Financially disincentivizing surgeons to care for these patients reduces access to care when high-quality care is most needed. These findings support increasing the allowable times for 2-stage septic revision cases.

The presence of a draining sinus is associated with failure of re-implantation during two-stage exchange arthroplasty.

Background: Reinfection rates after two-stage exchange arthroplasty for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) have been reported as high as 33 % in the literature. Understanding risk factors for treatment failure will help to preoperatively counsel patients on the likelihood of successful treatment and possibly influence the surgeon's treatment algorithm. This study aimed to delineate whether the presence of a draining sinus tract is associated with risk of failure of two-stage exchange arthroplasty. Methods: We performed a single institution, multi-center retrospective chart review of outcomes of patients treated for PJI with two-stage exchange arthroplasty between June 2006 and May 2016. For patients treated prior to 2011, PJI was defined based on the preoperative work-up and intraoperative findings as determined by the attending surgeon. After 2011, PJI was defined using MSIS consensus criteria. All patients had a minimum of follow-up of 2 years or treatment failure prior to 2 years. Treatment failure was defined as reinfection or failure to complete two-stage exchange secondary to persistent infection or other host factors. Operative reports and clinical notes were reviewed to assess for presence of a draining sinus tract. Results: 240 patients were treated for PJI with intended two-stage exchange arthroplasty. The overall rate of treatment failure was 29.6 % (), while the overall rate of reinfection was 13.3 % (). A total of 39 patients did not complete second stage revision; final treatment for these patients was amputation, fusion, or chronic antibiotic suppression. A total of 52 of 240 patients (21.7 %) had a draining sinus tract at presentation. Patients with a sinus tract were significantly less likely to be replanted compared to those without a sinus tract at presentation (13.3 % vs. 26.9 %, ). However, when accounting for all mechanisms of treatment failure, including reinfection following replantation, there was no statistically significant difference detected between the sinus and no-sinus groups (27.7 % vs. 36.5 %, ). Discussion: A draining sinus tract represents a chronic, deep infectious process with ultimate compromise of overlying soft tissues. Thus we hypothesized it would be associated with failure in a two-stage exchange arthroplasty. These data demonstrate that patients with a draining sinus are significantly less likely to undergo re-implantation. This provides evidence to the paucity of data surrounding draining sinuses and two-stage PJI treatment.

Comparing the Efficacy of Articulating Spacers in Two-Stage Revision for Periprosthetic Joint Infection Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: All-Cement Spacers vs Sterilized Replanted Metal-Polyethylene Spacers.

PurposeTwo-stage revision is the most common treatment for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Few studies have compared the clinical efficacy of different articulating spacers. This study compared the outcomes of all-cement articulating spacers and sterilized replanted metal-polyethylene articulating spacers for PJI following TKA.Patients and MethodsIn this retrospective observational study, 47 patients who received two-stage revision for PJI following TKA between 2006 and 2020 in our hospital were included. Patients were categorized as receiving an all-cement articulating spacer or a sterilized replanted metal-polyethylene articulating spacer in exclusion. Data on demographics, surgical information, and outcomes were collected in 2021.ResultsForty-seven spacers were identified: all-cement spacer was noted in 23 patients and sterilized replanted spacer in 24. Patients in the all-cement spacer group had shorter operation time (155.87 ± 33.12 vs 189.79 ± 51.21 min; P = 0.0102) and less blood loss (845.22 ± 525.92 vs 1114.50 ± 547.81 mL; P = 0.0427) in exclusion. Patients in the sterilized replanted spacer group had superior interval range of motion (ROM; 61.00 ± 31.94° vs 31.75 ± 33.38°; P = 0.0072), postoperative ROM (85.00 ± 11.11° vs 77.37 ± 9.18°; P = 0.0329) as compared to all-cement spacers, but there was no difference in infection control between 2 groups.ConclusionThe two types of spacers had no difference in the reinfection rate, indicating that both articulating spacers are safe and effective for 2-stage revision. Considering ROM of knee joint, bone loss and cost, sterilized replanted metal-polyethylene spacers are preferred in the treatment of PJI.

Assessment of Staphylococcal Clinical Isolates from Periprosthetic Joint Infections for Potential Bacteriophage Therapy.

Bacteriophage therapy is a potential adjunctive treatment for periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) given the capabilities of bacteriophages to degrade biofilms, self-replicate, and lyse bacteria. However, many aspects of this therapeutic are ill-defined, and the narrow spectrum of bacteriophage activity along with limited available bacteriophage strains curb potential use for specific bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus at the present time. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using bacteriophages for PJI by (1) categorizing the causative organisms in hip and knee PJI at a tertiary academic center and (2) evaluating in vitro activity of a group of bacteriophages against clinical S. aureus PJI isolates. Patients with chronic hip or knee PJI after undergoing the first stage of a 2-stage revision protocol from 2017 to 2020 were identified retrospectively by a query of the hospital billing database. The causative pathogens in 129 cases were reviewed and categorized. From this cohort, preserved S. aureus isolates were tested against a library of 15 staphylococcal bacteriophages to evaluate for bacterial growth inhibition over 48 hours. S. aureus was the most common pathogen causing PJI (26% [33] of 129 cases). Of 29 S. aureus samples that were analyzed for bacteriophage activity, 97% showed adequate growth inhibition of the predominant planktonic colonies by at least 1 bacteriophage strain. However, 24% of the 29 samples demonstrated additional smaller, slower-growing S. aureus colonies, none of which had adequate growth inhibition by any of the initial 14 bacteriophages. Of 5 secondary colonies that underwent subsequent testing with another bacteriophage with enhanced biofilm activity, 4 showed adequate growth inhibition. Effective bacteriophage therapeutics are potentially available for S. aureus PJI isolates. The differences in bacteriophage activity against the presumed small-colony variants compared with the planktonic isolates have important clinical implications. This finding suggests that bacteriophage attachment receptors differ between the different bacterial morphologic states, and supports future in vitro testing of bacteriophage therapeutics against both planktonic and stationary states of PJI clinical isolates to ensure activity.

Hospital Costs for Unsuccessful Two-Stage Revisions for Periprosthetic Joint Infection.

Although 2-stage exchange arthroplasty is the preferred surgical treatment for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in the United States, little is known about the risk of complications between stages, mortality, and the economic burden of unsuccessful 2-stage procedures. The 2015-2019 Medicare 100% inpatient sample was used to identify 2-stage PJI revisions in total hip and knee arthroplasty patients using procedural codes. We used the Fine and Gray sub-distribution adaptation of the conventional Kaplan-Meier method to estimate the probability of completing the second stage of the 2-stage PJI infection treatment, accounting for death as a competing risk. Hospital costs were estimated from the hospital charges using "cost-to-charge" ratios from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. A total of 5094 total hip arthroplasty and 13,062 total knee arthroplasty patients had an index revision for PJI during the study period. In the first 12 months following the first-stage explantation, the likelihood of completing a second-stage PJI revision was 43.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 41.7-44.5) for hips and 47.9% (95% CI 47.0-48.8) for knees. Following explantation, 1-year patient survival rates for hip and knee patients were 87.4% (95% CI 85.8-88.9) and 91.4% (95% CI 90.6-92.2), respectively. The median additional cost for hospitalizations between stages was $23,582 and $20,965 per patient for hips and knees, respectively. Hospital volume, Northeast or Midwest region, and younger age were associated with reduced PJI costs (P < .05). Although viewed as the most preferred, the 2-stage revision strategy for PJI had less than a 50% chance of successful completion within the first year, and was associated with high mortality rates and substantial costs for treatment failure.

Do Pre-Reimplantation Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate/C-Reactive Protein Cutoffs Guide Decision-Making in Prosthetic Joint Infection? Are We Flying Blind?

Two-stage exchange is a commonly used approach for treating chronic periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). A pre-reimplantation threshold value of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) to determine infection eradication and the proper timing of reimplantation remains ill-defined. We retrospectively reviewed 483 potential patients for eligibility. In total, 178 patients were excluded. In addition, 305 joints were eligible who underwent 2-stage revision for prosthetic hip or knee joint infection (PJI). Serum ESR and CRP were recorded at 8 weeks post resection prior to stage 2 reimplantation. ESR and CRP were analyzed with receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) for response failure. In total, 252 patients had resections for chronic infections while 53 septic patients had resections for acute infections. Forty-one of 252 (16.3%) patients failed reimplantation. Median ESR at the time of reimplantation was 17 (normal less than 20 mm/h). Median CRP was 0.6 (normal less than 0.5 mg/dL). ROC plot for response failure in analyzing ESR found an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.47. ROC plot analyzing CRP found an AUC of 0.57. The ratio of ESR/CRP was also utilized and found an AUC of 0.60. All of the AUC data are in the "fail to discriminate category." Although improvements in serology can be somewhat reassuring, there are no statistically significant values of ESR or CRP that would predict failure of reimplantation in the 2-stage treatment of PJI. Because we are flying blind consideration should be made for mandatory pre-reimplantation aspirates. Level IV, Retrospective Case Series.

Obesity, Comorbidities, and Prior Operations Additively Increase Failure in 2-Stage Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty for Prosthetic Joint Infection.

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) of the knee carries significant morbidity, mortality, and economic cost. We hypothesize that obese and poor medical hosts will have a significant and additive increase in failure rate undergoing 2-stage revision total knee arthroplasty for PJI. All 2-stage revision total knee arthroplasty procedures for PJI performed at one institution were identified between 2005 and 2020. In total, 144 patients were included and defined as success or failure based on published criteria regarding infection eradication, further intervention, or mortality. The American Society of Anesthesiologists score and the Charlson Comorbidity Index were utilized to assess host grade. Patient, surgical, and microbiologic variables were investigated with univariable and multivariable analysis to explore association with risk of failure. In the cohort, 32.4% of patients failed with mean follow-up of 5.1 years. In multivariable analysis, the number of major operations requiring arthrotomy and implantation of new material between the primary and first stage, host grade, and elevated body mass index were the major contributors to failure. Combining these factors, with body mass index >30 and 2 or more major operations, the failure rate increased to 76.5% and 71.4% respectively for American Society of Anesthesiologists score 3 (P ≤ .001) and Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥2 (P ≤ .001). In this cohort, multiple major operations between the primary and first stage, host grade, and obesity were the major contributors to failure. When combining these factors, patients had an additive increase in failure rate. Treatments such as amputation or less invasive options and suppression should be discussed and considered in these patients.

Outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty following failed superior capsular reconstruction.

BackgroundHistory of prior rotator cuff repair (RCR) may adversely affect the outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), but there is no information regarding the influence of prior superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) surgery on the outcomes of RTSA. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of RTSA following failed arthroscopic SCR.MethodsAll patients who underwent RTSA for failed SCR (SCR cohort) at our institution were identified from our institutional database. A comparative cohort of patients who had RTSA with a history of failed RCR (Control cohort) was also reviewed. Demographic information, 90-day complication rate, 90-day emergency department visits, length of stay, and outcome scores (patient-reported outcomes measurement information system [PROMIS] physical function upper extremity, Visual Analog Scale score, and range of motion) were compared.ResultsFrom 2015 to 2020, 87 arthroscopic SCRs were performed at our institution and of these, 13 patients underwent RTSA at a mean time of 14.6 months (5.8-32.4) after SCR and were followed up for an average of 17.9 months (1.6-44.6). The average number of shoulder surgeries prior to RTSA was 2.8 (1-7), with the last surgery being SCR. During the same period, we identified 15 patients who underwent an RTSA after a failed RCR (control cohort). The RTSA in the control cohort was performed on average at 12.8 months (1.5-39.5) following the last RCR, and patients were followed up for an average of 27.7 months (2.8-53.9). The average number of shoulder surgeries before the RTSA in the control cohort was 1.4 (1-3). Although the SCR cohort had significant improvements in pain scores and forward flexion (FF), there was only a modest functional improvement with PROMIS scores and no meaningful improvement with external rotation. Complications (23%) in the SCR cohort included 1 periprosthetic joint infection requiring 2-stage revision, 1 acromion stress fracture, and 1 ulnar neuritis. Overall, compared to the SCR cohort, patients in the control cohort had better function (PROMIS physical function upper extremity), lower Visual Analog Scale score, and greater range of motion (FF and external rotation) preoperatively and at last follow-up, but there were no differences in the length of stay and 90-day emergency department visits, infection, and complication rate between the 2 cohorts.ConclusionRTSA after failed SCR improves pain and FF but is associated with modest functional improvements and high complication rates. However, these findings will require confirmation in a larger cohort with longer follow-up.

Antibiotic Therapy in 2-Stage Revision for Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Systematic Review.

Patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA) are at risk for developing periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). To treat PJI, orthopaedic surgeons can perform 1-stage or 2-stage revision arthroplasty. Although 2-stage revision yields superior long-term outcomes, the optimal antibiotic therapy duration and route of administration between stages remain uncertain. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify if variations in antibiotic therapy, duration, and administration during 2-stage hip or knee revision arthroplasty affect PJI eradication rates and surgical outcome measures. A literature search was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify all original reports from January 2000 to June 2021 involving 2-stage revision arthroplasty to treat PJI. Studies were included if they specified antibiotic duration, an intravenous (IV) route of antibiotic administration, type of antibiotic, and 2-stage revision PJI eradication rate and had a mean or median follow-up of at least 2 years after the second-stage operation. Included studies were classified into 3 groups based on the length of IV antibiotic therapy after prosthesis explantation: prolonged IV antibiotic therapy of 4 to 6 weeks, shortened IV antibiotic therapy of ≤2 weeks, and shortened course of IV antibiotic therapy followed by 6 to 12 weeks of oral antibiotics. Nine studies were included. Three studies utilizing a prolonged IV antibiotic therapy had PJI eradication rates of 79% to 96%. Four studies using a shortened IV antibiotic therapy showed PJI eradication rates of 88% to 100%. Finally, 2 studies utilizing a shortened course of IV antibiotic therapy with oral antibiotics had PJI eradication rates of 95% and 97%. There was no significant difference in eradication rates across IV antibiotic duration strategies, despite a diverse array of cultured microorganisms across the studies. Although the numbers are small, this systematic review suggests that prolonged IV antibiotic duration, shortened IV antibiotic duration, and shortened IV antibiotic duration supplemented with oral antibiotics confer similar PJI eradication rates after hip or knee arthroplasty. Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.