Serum concentrations of tobramycin after intraarticular administration. An experimental study in the rabbit

Serum concentration of the aminoglycoside tobramycin was followed for 120 min after intraarticular injection of 20 mg tobramycin in six rabbit knee joints. Highest concentration was observed after 15-30 min, and compared with the values after intramuscular injection the serum half life was equal. No pathological changes were observed by histological examination of the synovial membrane and articular cartilage. It was concluded that no damage of the joint has been demonstrated after intraarticular injection of tobramycin, but the serum concentration must be monitored due to the rapid transport from the joint cavity.