Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
Novel Diagnostics in Revision Arthroplasty: Implant Sonication and Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction
Published on: December 3, 2017
[Update on implant related infections in orthopaedic surgery. Diagnosis and treatment]
O Borens1, F Nussbaumer, R Baalbaki
1Département de l'appareil locomoteur, CHUV, Lausanne. olivier.borens@chuv.ch
Abstract:
Infections associated with implants are increasingly important in modem medicine. Biofilms are the cause that these infections are more difficult to diagnose and to cure. Particularly low-grade infections are difficult to distinguish from aseptic failure, because they often present with early loosening and persisting pain. For an accurate diagnosis, clinical signs and symptoms, laboratory markers of infection, microbiology, histology and imaging examinations are needed. The treatment goal is eradication of infection and an optimal functional result. Successful treatment requires adequate surgical procedure combined with long-term antimicrobial therapy, ideally with an agent acting on biofilms.
Insights
Implant-associated infections caused by biofilms are challenging to diagnose and treat. Accurate diagnosis requires multiple methods, and successful treatment involves surgery and long-term antimicrobial therapy targeting biofilms.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Infectious Diseases
- Materials Science
Context:
- Implant-associated infections are a growing concern in modern medicine.
- Biofilms significantly complicate the diagnosis and treatment of these infections.
- Low-grade infections can mimic aseptic implant failure, presenting with pain and loosening.
Purpose:
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges posed by biofilm infections.
- To outline the necessary components for accurate diagnosis.
- To emphasize the goals and requirements for successful treatment of implant infections.
Summary:
- Biofilms are the primary cause of difficult-to-diagnose and treat implant-associated infections.
- Distinguishing low-grade infections from aseptic failure is challenging due to similar symptoms like pain and loosening.
- Accurate diagnosis necessitates a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory markers, microbiology, histology, and imaging.
- Treatment aims for infection eradication and optimal function, requiring surgery and extended antimicrobial therapy, preferably targeting biofilms.
Impact:
- Improved diagnostic strategies for implant-associated infections.
- Enhanced treatment protocols for biofilm-related complications.
- Better patient outcomes through effective infection management and implant survival.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Endocarditis III: Medical Management
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
01:30Bacterial Signaling