[Diagnosis and treatment of fracture-related infections]

Geertje A M Govaert1,2, M Frank Termaat3, A W J M Glaudemans4

  • 1UMC Utrecht, afd. Traumachirurgie, Utrecht.

Insights

Fracture-related infection (FRI) is a severe complication impacting quality of life and increasing costs. This paper reviews the Dutch guideline for diagnosing and treating FRI, emphasizing early recognition and appropriate management strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Trauma Care

Background:

  • Fracture-related infection (FRI) poses significant challenges, leading to severe morbidity, reduced quality of life, increased healthcare costs, and loss of social and professional participation.
  • The 2018 AO/EBJIS consensus definition has improved understanding and management of FRI.
  • National and international efforts are underway to develop guidelines and tools for effective FRI patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a synopsis of the Dutch guideline on Fracture-related Infection (FRI) published in 2018.
  • To offer an overview of current knowledge regarding the diagnosis and treatment of FRI.
  • To illustrate guideline recommendations with a clinical case example.

Main Methods:

  • Synopsis of the Dutch guideline on Fracture-related Infection (2018).
  • Review of current literature and expert consensus on FRI diagnosis and management.
  • Presentation and discussion of a relevant clinical case.

Main Results:

  • Successful management of FRI hinges on early recognition, thorough surgical debridement, and obtaining deep, uncontaminated tissue cultures.
  • Integrated treatment involves fracture stabilization, potential soft tissue reconstruction, and appropriate antibiotic therapy.
  • The Dutch guideline provides a structured approach to the complex care of patients with FRI.

Conclusions:

  • Adherence to established guidelines is crucial for optimizing outcomes in Fracture-related Infection.
  • A multidisciplinary approach combining surgical intervention and antibiotic treatment is essential.
  • This review aims to enhance the understanding and application of evidence-based practices for FRI management.

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