Minimally Invasive Irrigation of Neonatal Septic Arthritis Using 18-Gauge Needle Portals.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Neonatal Surgery
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Neonatal septic arthritis demands urgent treatment to avoid joint destruction and sepsis.
• Open surgical drainage presents risks in neonates due to small joint spaces.
• Diagnosing neonatal septic arthritis is challenging due to subtle clinical signs and immature immune systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a minimally invasive needle-based technique for treating neonatal septic arthritis of the hip.
• To present an alternative to traditional open or arthroscopic surgical drainage in neonates.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous needle irrigation for neonatal hip joint washout.

Main Methods:

• A technique using two 18-gauge needles for irrigation and drainage of the neonatal hip joint.
• Percutaneous insertion of needles under sterile conditions and radiographic guidance.
• Confirmation of joint placement with arthrogram dye, followed by saline instillation and effluent drainage.

Main Results:

• Successful joint washout achieved without open arthrotomy.
• The technique confirmed efficacy by flushing out the arthrogram dye.
• Demonstrated a safe, effective, and less invasive approach compared to conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous needle irrigation is a viable alternative for managing neonatal septic arthritis of the hip.
• This minimally invasive method reduces morbidity associated with traditional surgical approaches in neonates.
• The technique provides effective joint washout, crucial for preventing long-term complications.