Do all metallic implants need to be removed to eradicate periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs)? Does this apply to other metal hardware present (e.g., hook plates, cables) as well?

Do all metallic implants need to be removed to eradicate periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs)? Does this apply to other metal hardware present (e.g., hook plates, cables) as well?

Authors: Matthew Dietz, Andrew Battenberg

RECOMMENDATION: Complete debridement of the hip or knee joint and removal of all hardware is ideal during surgical treatment of PJIs. This principle should be followed whenever possible. However, there may be rare cases of PJIs when removal of all hardware may lead to marked morbidity and preclude future reconstruction. In the latter situation, some hardware may be retained.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Consensus

DELEGATE VOTE: Agree: 97%, Disagree: 3%, Abstain: 0% (Unanimous, Strongest Consensus)

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