Septic arthritis
Native joint infection
In a native joint, sepsis leads to rapid destruction of the cartilage and is an emergency. Early diagnosis, surgical washout and administration of antibiotics provide the best chance of saving the joint. For more information on management of infected native joints.
Joint replacement infection
Infection of a joint replacement is important to diagnose and treat but does not routinely require emergency surgery unless the patient is grossly septic or the wound has broken down. For more information on management of infected joint replacements.
In a native joint, sepsis leads to rapid destruction of the cartilage and is an emergency. Early diagnosis, surgical washout and administration of antibiotics provide the best chance of saving the joint. For more information on management of infected native joints.
Joint replacement infection
Infection of a joint replacement is important to diagnose and treat but does not routinely require emergency surgery unless the patient is grossly septic or the wound has broken down. For more information on management of infected joint replacements.
