Antimicrobial treatment concepts for orthopaedic device-related infection

Successful management of orthopaedic device-related infections requires combined surgical and antimicrobial therapy. Because of the heterogeneity of clinical situations, controlled trials are lacking. Although rational concepts for surgical treatment have been published, many aspects of antimicrobial therapy are still not well documented. In this review, some of these knowledge gaps are discussed, and rational arguments for initial parenteral treatment are presented. In addition, the interpretation of data regarding bone penetration is discussed. Whereas rifampin is now a standard combination partner in the treatment of staphylococcal infections, its role against other microorganisms is still unclear. Finally, in view of the increasing prevalence of methicillin-resistant staphylococci and their decreasing susceptibility to vancomycin, data are provided on linezolid and daptomycin, which can potentially be used in bone and joint infections.