Single-Stage Treatment of Fracture-related Infections

Olivia M Rice1, Kevin D Phelps1, Rachel Seymour1

  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, Charlotte, NC.

Abstract

Insights

This study presents a low-cost method for fabricating antibiotic-coated intramedullary nails in the operating room. This single-stage approach offers a promising alternative for treating fracture-related infections (FRIs) and septic nonunions.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic surgery
  • Infectious disease management
  • Biomaterials science

Background:

  • Fracture-related infections (FRIs) pose a significant clinical challenge.
  • Current staged treatments for FRIs involve multiple procedures, leading to increased patient morbidity and economic burden.
  • Single-stage treatment options for FRIs are being explored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To detail the fabrication of low-cost, antibiotic-coated locked intramedullary nails within the operating room.
  • To present preliminary results of using this technique for acute FRIs and septic nonunions.

Main Methods:

  • Intraoperative fabrication of antibiotic-coated locked intramedullary nails.
  • Application of the fabricated nails for acute fracture-related infections.
  • Application of the fabricated nails for septic nonunion treatment.

Main Results:

  • Demonstration of a feasible low-cost method for antibiotic-coated nail fabrication.
  • Preliminary positive outcomes in treating acute FRIs.
  • Preliminary positive outcomes in treating septic nonunions.

Conclusions:

  • Intraoperative fabrication of antibiotic-coated locked intramedullary nails is a viable and potentially cost-effective strategy.
  • This single-stage approach may reduce morbidity associated with traditional staged treatments for FRIs.
  • Further investigation is warranted to confirm long-term efficacy and broader applicability.

Related Concept Videos

Fractures: Bone Repair01:27

Fractures: Bone Repair

Treatment for a fracture is based on the type of break, the bone affected, and the patient's age.
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the...
4.1K
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:28

Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management

Introduction:For diagnosing acute pyelonephritis, a comprehensive patient history is collected to identify symptoms such as dysuria, frequent or urgent urination, flank pain, or costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness that may suggest a kidney infection.Physical ExaminationDuring the physical examination, CVA tenderness is assessed. This involves gentle percussion over the costovertebral angle, where tenderness often indicates a kidney infection.Diagnostic TestsUrinalysis: Used to identify white...
89
Flail Chest-II01:26

Flail Chest-II

Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
306
Pneumonia IV: Management01:28

Pneumonia IV: Management

The treatment of pneumonia varies based on its severity and the causative pathogen. Here is a structured approach to managing pneumonia, integrating pharmaceutical and supportive care strategies.
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
529
Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:30

Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

A healthcare provider can diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) through several methods:Medical History and Symptoms: The provider will take a detailed medical history and ask about symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal pain.Urinalysis: A clean-catch urine sample is collected in a sterile container and tested for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells (leukocytes), nitrites, blood, and protein. The presence of leukocytes and...
85
Endocarditis III: Medical Management01:18

Endocarditis III: Medical Management

Infective endocarditis management involves a multifaceted approach encompassing infection prevention, lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy, and surgical management.Infection Prevention:Hand Hygiene: Thorough handwashing is crucial to prevent the spread of infection. Hand hygiene should be performed regularly, especially before and after using the restroom.Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential. It includes brushing teeth immediately after waking up and before bed, flossing...
66