Subclinical Presentation of Cutibacterium acnes Infection Following Revision Rotator Cuff Surgery

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Infectious Disease
• Microbiology

Background:

• Revision arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a common orthopedic procedure.
• Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) can cause late-onset infections following shoulder surgery.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in septic arthritis.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms 2.5 months post-revision rotator cuff repair.
• The patient had a culture-proven C. acnes infection.
• The decision was made for immediate surgical intervention upon presentation.

Findings:

• Arthroscopic irrigation and debridement were performed on the day of presentation.
• This intervention proceeded without awaiting definitive culture results.
• The case highlights the potential for subclinical C. acnes infections.

Implications:

• Prompt surgical management can be effective even with suspected subclinical infection.
• This approach may prevent delays in treating C. acnes septic arthritis.
• Further evidence supports timely intervention in post-operative shoulder infections.