When Does a Septic Joint Need Repeat Surgery?

Bacterial joint infections behave like abscesses and require drainage as well as antibiotics for cure. Many joint infections respond to a single surgical debridement and irrigation, but repeat procedures are necessary in as many as 50%.

Researchers retrospectively reviewed all cases of septic arthritis seen by the orthopedic service at a single institution in Rochester, New York, during 10 years to determine risk factors for repeat debridement. Of the 132 infections that were treated in 128 patients, initial debridement and irrigation was open in 68% and arthroscopic in 32%. Subsequently, standard clinical variables such as persistent purulent drainage and worsening pain led to repeat procedures in 50 of 132 joints (38%).

Independent signific…