Total knee arthroplasty infection: significance of delayed aspiration

The records of 35 patients with total knee arthroplasty infection were reviewed to investigate the significance of delayed aspiration and the success of treatment. In 13 patients, aspiration was performed within 3 months after the onset of symptoms of infection. The median duration of treatment was 243 days, and infection was arrested in all patients. In 22 patients, aspiration was performed >3 months after the onset of symptoms. The duration of treatment was significantly longer in these patients (P<.001). Persistent infection was recorded in 8 patients, and amputation of the involved leg was done in 3 patients. Aspiration within 3 months after the onset of symptoms of infection significantly reduced the duration of treatment and increased the chances of successfully arresting infection.