Implant materials and prosthetic joint infection: the battle with the biofilm

Donald J Davidson1,2, David Spratt2, Alexander D Liddle2,3

  • 1Research Department of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University College London, London, UK.

EFORT Open Reviews
|November 23, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Prosthetic joint infections (PJI) are a growing challenge in joint replacement surgery. Research is exploring new implant surface modifications to prevent and treat these difficult-to-eradicate biofilm infections.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic surgery
  • Infectious disease
  • Biomaterials science

Background:

  • Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a severe complication of joint replacement surgery, leading to poor outcomes and high treatment costs.
  • The incidence of PJI is increasing, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems.
  • Bacteria in PJI form biofilms, making them resistant to antibiotics and the immune system, thus difficult to eradicate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of microbial pathology in PJI.
  • To explore novel treatment strategies for preventing and eradicating biofilm-associated infections.
  • To highlight the potential of modified implant surfaces in combating PJI.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current research on prosthetic joint infections and biofilm formation.
  • Analysis of emerging strategies for implant surface modification.
  • Evaluation of early clinical successes in translating research to practice.

Main Results:

  • Understanding microbial pathology in PJI has led to new therapeutic approaches.
  • Implant surface modifications are a promising strategy for preventing bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.
  • Early clinical studies show potential for these novel approaches, though widespread clinical adoption is pending.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting biofilm formation through implant surface modification offers a promising avenue for PJI prevention and treatment.
  • Continued research and clinical translation are crucial for managing this challenging complication of joint replacement.
  • Innovative strategies are needed to reduce the incidence and improve the outcomes of prosthetic joint infections.

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