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Future directions for early detection of fracture related infections
1Singapore General Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Singapore.
Introduction:
Fracture related infection (FRI) refers to pathogens infecting a fracture site and hence impeding fracture healing. It is a significant complication that carries substantial disease burden and socio-economic costs, but has had limited scientific development. Hence, this paper will review the existing strategies for early detection of FRI, in the form of serum markers, molecular diagnostics and imaging modalities, and further discuss potential future directions for improved detection of FRI.
Existing Strategies For Diagnosis Of Fri:
The Anti-infection Global Expert Committee (AIGEC) developed a consensus definition for FRI in 2017, which includes confirmatory and suggestive criteria for diagnosis of FRI. Existing strategies for diagnosis include clinical, laboratory, histopathological, microbiological and radiological investigations.
Future Directions For Early Detection Of Fri:
With increasing recognition of FRI, early detection is crucial for early treatment to be enforced. We have identified potential areas for future development in diagnostics for early detection of FRI, which are discussed in this manuscript. They include inflammatory cytokines, serum calcium levels, platelet count, improved management of histopathological and microbiological specimens, metagenomics, wound biomarkers, gut microbiota analysis, and novel imaging technologies.
Insights
Fracture related infection (FRI) is a major complication impacting bone healing. This review explores current diagnostic methods and highlights future directions for earlier and more accurate detection of FRI.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Diagnostic Medicine
Background:
- Fracture related infection (FRI) significantly impedes fracture healing, leading to considerable disease burden and socio-economic costs.
- Despite its impact, scientific advancements in FRI detection and management have been limited.
- A consensus definition for FRI was established in 2017, guiding current diagnostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing strategies for the early detection of fracture related infection (FRI).
- To discuss potential future directions and novel technologies for improved FRI diagnostics.
- To emphasize the importance of early FRI detection for timely treatment and better patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on diagnostic methods for fracture related infection (FRI).
- Analysis of established diagnostic strategies including serum markers, molecular diagnostics, and imaging modalities.
- Exploration of emerging technologies and biomarkers for future FRI detection.
Main Results:
- Current FRI diagnostic strategies encompass clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, histopathology, microbiology, and radiology.
- Potential future directions for early FRI detection include analysis of inflammatory cytokines, serum calcium, platelet count, and gut microbiota.
- Advancements in metagenomics, wound biomarkers, and novel imaging technologies offer promising avenues for improved FRI diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Early detection of fracture related infection (FRI) is critical for effective treatment and improved fracture healing.
- Integrating novel biomarkers and advanced imaging techniques will enhance the accuracy and timeliness of FRI diagnosis.
- Continued research and development in diagnostic technologies are essential to address the challenges posed by FRI.
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