Diagnosis of Periprosthetic Joint Infection-An Algorithm-Based Approach

The diagnosis of PJI is easily made in our experience in 90% of patients by getting an erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein followed by selective aspiration of the joint if these values are elevated or if the clinical suspicion is high. Synovial fluid obtained should be sent for a synovial fluid white blood cell count, differential, and cultures.