Improved treatment strategies can result in better outcomes following one-stage exchange surgery for MRSA periprosthetic joint infection

Abstract

Introduction. Periprosthetic joint infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA-PJIs) are rare, with only a few studies reporting the treatment outcomes and even fewer reporting outcomes with one-stage exchange. Aim. This study aims to analyse the outcomes of one-stage exchange in the management of MRSA-PJIs. Methodology. Patients with MRSA-PJI of the hip and knee, who were treated with a one-stage exchange between 2001 and 2018 were enrolled in this study. The final cohort comprised of 29 patients, which included 23 hips and six knees. The mean follow-up was 5.3 years (1–9 years). Reinfection and complications rates after the one-stage exchange were analysed. Results. Overall infection control could be achieved in 93.1% (27 out of 29 patients). The overall revision rate was 31.0% (9 patients), with three patients requiring an in-hospital revision (10.3%). Six patients had to be revised after hospital discharge (20.7%). Of the two reinfections, one had a growth of MRSA while the other was of methicillin-sensitive Staphyloccocus epidermidis. Conclusion. One-stage exchange surgery using current techniques could improve surgical outcomes with excellent results in the management of MRSA-PJIs.