We developed a pig model to study how different tissue flaps support the healing microenvironment of lower-leg composite defects. By measuring tissue metabolism and examining tissue samples under the microscope, we found distinct early responses between muscle and fascia-based flaps. This model may help researchers and clinicians better understand the healing of complex bone and soft-tissue defects and may provide a platform for evaluating clinically relevant ortho-plastic outcomes.

In recent decades, there has been a growing emphasis on the use of local antibiotics in orthopaedic surgery, but development of new technologies has been limited. In this study we observe that a 1.5 mL injection of the novel technology CarboCell G/C into the bone provides very high levels of the antibiotics gentamicin and clindamycin in bones, with almost no spill to the bloodstream. These findings bolster the prospect of new and improved technologies for combatting orthopaedic infections.

Diabetic foot osteomyelitis is a severe diabetes complication that increases the risk of limb loss and death. This study assessed a one-stage surgical approach with primary wound closure and local antibiotics, showing favourable results. Among 97 patients, 13 needed further treatment, but only 4 required major amputation. Poor circulation was the main factor in failure. These findings challenge traditional methods and may improve quality of life, although further high-quality trials are needed.

To improve the existing knowledge and treatment of bone and joint infections, it is essential to unite medical disciplines and bridge the gap between basic and clinical sciences. In 2018, the Centrum fOr translational Medicine on Bone and joint INfEctions (COMBINE) was created to facilitate collaboration among Danish scientists and researchers dedicated to bone and joint infection research. This paper aims to share the COMBINE approach and values.

This study consists of 26 patients with infection of the pubic symphysis. The authors believe that by drawing awareness to this condition patients may be diagnosed and undergo surgery faster; 21 of the patients had pelvic surgery before onset of pubic infection. The diagnostic delay was between 1 and 12 months. All patients underwent surgical debridement and received a minimum of 6 weeks antibiotic treatment; 23 patients had postoperative pain relief and 19 patients were ambulant without aids.