[The infected implant. Part 1: bacteriology]

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 20, 2026

Animal Model of Implant-Associated Infections in Mice
07:02

Animal Model of Implant-Associated Infections in Mice

Published on: June 27, 2025

U Geipel1, M Herrmann

  • 1Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Institut für Infektionsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg. bhugei@uniklinik-saarland.de

Der Orthopade
|November 20, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Periprosthetic joint infection is a complication of joint replacement surgery. Diagnosis involves culture and molecular methods, with treatment tailored to the individual case and preventive measures like antibiotic prophylaxis.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Context:

  • Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious complication following joint replacement surgery, occurring in 0.5-2% of procedures.
  • Bacterial colonization, including Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci, often occurs on implant surfaces during surgery.
  • Pathogenesis involves bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation, and metabolic adaptation of microorganisms.

Purpose:

  • To review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periprosthetic joint infections.
  • To highlight the role of bacterial factors and host interactions in PJI development.
  • To outline current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for managing PJI.

Summary:

  • PJI pathogenesis is multifactorial, involving bacterial colonization and adherence mechanisms.
  • Diagnosis requires sophisticated microbiological analysis of surgical or puncture specimens.
  • Treatment is individualized, combining antimicrobial therapy (often combination or sequential) with surgical intervention.

Impact:

  • Improved understanding of PJI mechanisms can lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
  • Advances in molecular diagnostics offer faster and more accurate pathogen identification.
  • Optimized treatment protocols aim to reduce morbidity and improve outcomes for patients with PJI.

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