Initiating Implant Infection Innovation

Orthopedic implant procedures are among the most successful surgeries in the last century. These life improving operations have low levels of complications, particularly with the application of best practices in reducing risks.^1,2 Despite these low rates, with increasing numbers of surgical procedures to implant devices daily, the incidence of complications (including infections) will continue to be a risk despite aseptic protocols. Failure in the surgical implantation of a device can be devastating, especially when it is due to surgical site infections.

It is important to consider a higher percentage of infections are linked to endogenous sources of microorganisms from patients, but a lower percentage are from exogenous (e.g., environmental) sources. In addition, there is a concern with the increased patient risks with microorganisms tolerant or resistant to antibiotic therapy. Persistence of microorganisms on device surfaces or in damaged tissue can lead to biofilm development over time, with significant patient impact including premature revision surgery or subsequent life altering events.³

This article expounds on the outcomes