Definition of infection.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a significant complication following joint replacement surgery.
• These infections can be broadly categorized into early and late onset based on timing and bacterial characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the definitions and characteristics of early and late periprosthetic infections.
• To emphasize the role of bacterial virulence in differentiating infection types.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical definitions of periprosthetic infections.
• Analysis of bacterial characteristics (virulence) associated with different infection timelines.

Main Results:

• Early periprosthetic infections are typically caused by highly virulent bacteria due to perioperative contamination.
• Late chronic or delayed periprosthetic infections are associated with low-virulence bacteria and often present with implant loosening or pain.
• Bacterial virulence is a more critical defining factor than precise time intervals.

Conclusions:

• The classification of periprosthetic infections should prioritize bacterial virulence over strict temporal definitions.
• Understanding bacterial virulence aids in diagnosing and managing periprosthetic joint infections effectively.