Impact of HIV on bone and joint surgery

In 2007, approximately 33 million people were living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection worldwide. Sub-Saharan Africa has been hardest hit by the HIV pandemic. In this chapter the impact of HIV infection on bone and joint surgery is reviewed. The management of orthopaedic trauma and diseases specific to HIV infection (such as osteonecrosis, bone tumours, and bone and joint infection) in patients with HIV infection are discussed. The importance of universal protection during surgical procedures is emphasized. The guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control for HIV-positive health workers and their involvement in the treatment of these are discussed.