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Updated: May 17, 2026

Novel Diagnostics in Revision Arthroplasty: Implant Sonication and Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction
Published on: December 3, 2017
The use of antimicrobial-impregnated PMMA to manage periprosthetic infections: controversial issues and the latest
1Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implants, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
Despite improvements in intraoperative antimicrobial procedures, in surgical techniques and in implant design for joint replacement, periprosthetic infection after arthroplasty is still one of the most challenging problems encountered by orthopedic surgeons. Systemic antibiotics are not sufficiently effective to eradicate such deep infections because of the impaired blood circulation and low antibiotic concentration at the implantation site. As a local drug delivery system, antibiotic-impregnated PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) bone cements have been widely used for prophylaxis or treatment of deep infections after total joint replacement. However, the effectiveness of antibiotic-loaded PMMA in preventing infections after arthroplasty is still controversial. Furthermore, the outcomes of established deep infections treated with this technique are not consistent. The local use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains and has adverse effects on the function of osteogenic cells. Recently, many efforts have been made to identify new antibacterial agents that can be loaded into PMMA. These antimicrobial agents should exhibit good antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant strains and should simultaneously enhance osteointegration between the PMMA and the bone tissue. PMMA loaded with chitosan or chitosan derivatives has been demonstrated to induce improved osteogenic activity and to exhibit antibacterial activity in a preclinical study.
Insights
Antibiotic-loaded polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is used for joint replacement infections, but outcomes vary. Chitosan-based PMMA shows promise for improved bone integration and antibacterial activity against resistant strains.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Periprosthetic joint infection remains a significant challenge in arthroplasty despite surgical and implant advancements.
- Systemic antibiotics are often ineffective for deep-seated infections due to poor drug penetration.
- Antibiotic-impregnated polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is a common local drug delivery system, but its efficacy is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of novel antibacterial agents in PMMA for treating periprosthetic joint infections.
- To identify agents that combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and promote osteointegration.
- To explore chitosan and its derivatives as potential PMMA additives.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on antibiotic-loaded PMMA for arthroplasty infections.
- Analysis of preclinical studies investigating new antimicrobial agents for bone cement.
- Focus on agents with dual antibacterial and osteogenic properties.
Main Results:
- The effectiveness of traditional antibiotic-loaded PMMA is inconsistent and can lead to antibiotic resistance.
- Local antibiotic use may negatively impact osteogenic cell function.
- Preclinical studies indicate chitosan-loaded PMMA exhibits both antibacterial and osteogenic potential.
Conclusions:
- There is a need for improved local antimicrobial strategies in arthroplasty to overcome resistance and enhance bone healing.
- Chitosan and its derivatives represent a promising alternative for developing next-generation PMMA bone cements.
- Further research is warranted to validate the clinical efficacy of chitosan-modified PMMA in preventing and treating periprosthetic joint infections.
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