Current Status and Perspectives of Diagnosis and Treatment of Periprosthetic Joint Infection

Abstract

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a catastrophic complication following joint replacement surgery, posing significant challenges to orthopedic surgeons. Due to the lack of a definitive diagnostic gold standard, timely treatment initiation is problematic, resulting in substantial economic burdens on patients and society. In this review, we thoroughly analyze the complexities of PJI and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The article specifically focuses on the advancements in diagnostic techniques, ranging from traditional pathogen culture to advanced molecular diagnostics, and discusses their role in enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Additionally, we review the latest surgical management strategies, including everything from debridement to revision surgeries. Our summary aims to provide practical information for the diagnosis and treatment of PJI and encourages further research to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Keywords:

• arthroplasty
• periprosthetic joint infection
• PJI
• molecular diagnosis
• pathogenesis diagnosis
• antibiotic application
• recurrence of infection

Author Contributions

Yaji Yang, Haotian Zhou, Feilong Li, Yanhao Zhang, Shenyi Dong Wei Huang, Leilei Qin conceived the study, collected the literatures, and drafted the manuscript. Corresponding authors, including Leilei Qin, Wei Huang provided their corrective comments. Wei Huang and Leilei Qin revised the manuscript. All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

All of the authors declare that there are no personal, commercial, political, and any other potential conflicting interests related to the published paper.

Additional information

Funding

National Postdoctoral Special Funding Project Fund (GZC20233351).