Infection

Infection can affect any part of your body including your bones and joints. Orthopedic infections are often caused by an infection that has spread from other areas of the body. In some cases, infection may be related to the presence of an artificial joint – especially in the knee and hip. Without prompt treatment, these infections can lead to serious illness and permanent disabilities.

Some conditions, such as diabetes and COPD, may cause an increased risk of infection in general. In these instances, specialized care and treatment should be instated. Early diagnosis, antibiotic treatment, and surgery to remove or drain the infection when necessary can cure most infections.

Symptoms

Pain, redness, warmth, or swelling near the infection site
Fatigue, fevers, shaking chills, or drenching sweats
Draining pus from wounds
Limited range of motion or inability to use affected area
Loosening or instability of hardware of artificial joints

Causes

Spread of infection from other areas in the body
Seeding of infection from a blood stream infection
Infection during the time of trauma
Hospital or surgical-acquired infections

Risk Factors

Presence of prosthetic joints or devices, mostly commonly in the hip or knee
Conditions such as diabetes, HIV, organ or stem cell transplants
Underlying chronic medical conditions such as spinal cord injuries, renal or liver disease, COPD, vascular disease, lymphedema, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout
Engaging in substance abuse such as alcohol or IV drug abuse
Smoking
Age
Malnutrition
Excess weight

Diagnosis

Evaluation of vital signs
Blood tests
Physical exam
Biopsy of pathology
Imaging such as MRI or ultrasounds

Treatment Options

IV antibiotics for bone and joint treatment
Surgical removal or drainage of infection – often conducted via arthroscopy
Surgical removal of hardware such as knee or hip replacements