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Periprosthetic joint infection: the economic impact of methicillin-resistant infections
Javad Parvizi1, Ian M Pawasarat, Khalid A Azzam
1Rothman Institute of Orthopedics at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
Abstract:
The orthopedic community has begun to witness a worrisome rise in the incidence of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) caused by resistant organisms. Besides other challenges associated with treating these infections, it appears that these infections may pose a higher cost compared to infections caused by sensitive organisms. Significantly higher cost of care for treatment of infections due to methicillin-resistant organisms were seen at a mean of $107,264 per case compared to $68,053 for treating PJI caused by sensitive strains (P < .0001). More effective strategies for preventing the spread of infections caused by resistant organisms need to be implemented to ease the social and economic strains facing the orthopedic community due to resistant organisms.
Insights
Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) caused by resistant organisms are increasing and significantly more expensive to treat than those caused by sensitive strains. Implementing better prevention strategies is crucial to reduce the economic burden on orthopedics.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Infectious disease
- Health economics
Background:
- Rising incidence of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs)
- Increasing prevalence of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant organisms
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the economic impact of resistant organisms in PJIs
- To compare treatment costs between PJIs caused by resistant and sensitive organisms
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of PJI treatment costs
- Comparison of mean cost of care for infections caused by methicillin-resistant organisms versus sensitive strains
Main Results:
- PJIs caused by methicillin-resistant organisms had a significantly higher mean cost of care ($107,264) compared to those caused by sensitive strains ($68,053)
- P < .0001 indicates a statistically significant difference in treatment costs
Conclusions:
- PJIs caused by resistant organisms represent a substantial economic burden on the healthcare system
- There is a critical need for enhanced strategies to prevent the spread of resistant organisms in orthopedic settings
- Addressing the economic and social impact of resistant PJIs is essential for the orthopedic community
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