The use of antibiotic impregnated absorbable calcium sulphate beads in management of infected joint replacement prostheses

AimsA multimodality approach is needed for management of infected joint replacement prostheses. We present our results in four patients managed surgically with standard techniques, with the addition of a local antibiotic delivery system using absorbable calcium sulphate beads.MethodsA retrospective study was undertaken of 4 patients with infected hip or knee joint prosthesis. Two patients had infection in the hip and two had infected prosthetic knee joints.ResultsPatients were followed up in clinic for resolution of inflammatory markers and subsidence of signs of infection. Cure of infection was achieved in three patients at average 19 months follow up.ConclusionIn this preliminary study, we found local antibiotic delivery using absorbable calcium sulphate beads to be an effective adjuvant to standard debridement, parenteral antibiotics and revision of implants.