When should hardware be removed when treating surgical site infection (SSI) in orthopaedic trauma?

Author: J. Tracy Watson

RECOMMENDATION: The decision to retain or remove hardware differs by clinical scenario and must take into account extent of the infection and stability of the hardware and fracture. A methodical approach that addresses the pathogen, host factors and bony and soft tissue deficiencies is required, and includes thorough debridement, dead-space management and soft tissue and bony reconstruction using the established principles of the reconstruction ladder.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Moderate

DELEGATE VOTE: Agree: 95%, Disagree: 0%, Abstain: 5% (Unanimous, Strongest Consensus)

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