Deep Infection after Distal Radius Open-reduction Internal Fixation: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Deep infection following distal radius open-reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is uncommon.
• Limited reports exist on effective management strategies for these infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present treatment strategies and functional outcomes for deep infection after distal radius ORIF.
• To expand understanding of managing this rare complication.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of patients with deep infections post-distal radius ORIF over ten years.
• Assessment of treatment courses and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Four patients (3 female, 1 male, average age 55.5) were identified.
• Infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA/MSSA); mean time to irrigation and debridement (I&D) with hardware removal (ROH) was 16 days.
• All patients received antibiotics (IV or oral); two required repeat I&D. Successful infection eradication was achieved in all cases.

Conclusions:

• Deep infection rate after distal radius ORIF is <1%.
• No definitive treatment algorithm exists, but hardware removal and antibiotic therapy appear effective.
• Treatment aligns with standard practices for orthopaedic surgical site infections.