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Serratia marcescens as a cause of postoperative infection in a total joint implant
Abstract:
Serratia marcescens is a rare cause of musculoskeletal infections and osteomyelitis occurring most frequently in nosocomial infections, debilitated patients, drug addicts, and traumatic open wounds. It is rarely a cause of postoperative infection in elective surgery with only a few such cases being reported in the United States and European literature. The authors present a case of Serratia marcescens infection of a total joint implant from an apparent perioperative source and review the literature concerning this organism as a cause of infection in man.
Insights
Serratia marcescens is an uncommon cause of bone infections, particularly after surgery. This study details a case of total joint implant infection by this bacterium, highlighting its rare but serious potential in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Serratia marcescens is an opportunistic pathogen.
- It is a rare cause of musculoskeletal infections and osteomyelitis.
- Most commonly associated with nosocomial infections, debilitated patients, intravenous drug users, and traumatic wounds.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of Serratia marcescens infection in a total joint implant.
- The infection appears to have originated from a perioperative source.
- Few cases of postoperative Serratia marcescens infection following elective surgery have been documented in the US and European literature.
Findings:
- Serratia marcescens can cause challenging deep-seated infections, including osteomyelitis and prosthetic joint infections.
- Perioperative contamination is a potential, though infrequent, source of such infections.
- Effective management requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Serratia marcescens in postoperative infections, especially in joint replacements.
- Underscores the need for vigilance in sterile procedures during elective orthopedic surgery.
- Contributes to the understanding of rare bacterial infections in surgical implants and patient populations.