Abstract

The need for total joint arthroplasty of the big joints due to osteoarthrosis is growing rapidly. Periprosthetic joint infection (PI) is a rare (1-3%)but serious complication. Treatment of PI is burdensome for the patient and for the medical system and usually includes repeated surgical procedures and long antibacterial treatment with the use of multiple antibiotics. The diagnosis and treatment of PI can be complicated and clinical practice varies a great deal. This article provides an overview of the science based approach implemented at Tartu University Hospital.