Infection in total joint arthroplasty from distal intravenous lines. A case report

Prevention of late hematogenous infection of a total joint arthroplasty is of great importance because of the catastrophic consequences. Any situation that can lead to a bacteremia should be avoided and appropriate prophylactic antibiotics given in anticipation of a bacteremic episode. This report documents a bacteremia and total joint infection secondary to a routine intravenous line placed in an extremity distal to a total knee arthroplasty. Routine intravenous infusion lines should not be placed in extremities with proximal total joint arthroplasties. Educating both patients and physicians about the risks to a prosthetic joint is important.