Surgical site infections subjected to photodynamic therapy: a potential application in orthopaedic surgery

Abstract

Introduction Photodynamic therapy, a minimally invasive oncological modality, has been in use for over 20 years. However, little clinical data is available on its non-oncological efficacy. Several laboratory-based trials on animals have suggested that this technology may be applicable as an antimicrobial therapy. In orthopaedics, where implants and metal work are placed in deep tissue planes, a potential risk of infection is treated very seriously. Infection not only increases patient morbidity and mortality but also the burden on healthcare system. Proposing a new modality that can instantly tackle this problem. This critical review discusses surgical site infections subjected to photodynamic therapy. Conclusion Surgical care should be state of the art with careful attention to strategies that avoid the development of SSIs. When SSI does occur, superficial and deep wound infections can be treated using PDT by applying topical photosensitiser to the area followed by light illumination.