This survey study describes the composition of US-based orthopedic infectious diseases (Ortho ID) teams across more than a dozen large academic medical centers, finding many institutions have dedicated Ortho ID clinics or inpatient services. These teams are highly valued by both ID clinicians and surgeons for engendering strong multidisciplinary relationships and improving patient outcomes.

The role of long-term antibiotics after debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) for periprosthetic joint infections is unclear. Patients with eventual cessation of antibiotics had similar outcomes to those who remained on chronic antibiotic suppression (failure rate of 11 % for both groups). This study importantly highlights a potential opportunity to prevent unnecessary antibiotic use and spare patients from the risk of side effects and development of resistant organisms. 

This work investigates periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) following total joint arthroplasty. Eight patients were identified as part of a retrospective review. The isolated RGM species included Mycobacterium abscessus  (three cases), M. fortuitum (three cases), and one case each of M. immunogenum and M. mageritense. We provide novel insights into the successful treatment of PJIs caused by newly identified RGM (M. immunogenum and M. mageritense).

Physicians have difficulties interpreting the isolation of Cutibacterium acnes in the spine tissue. Here we provide the experience of our center about this topic, adding data that can help physicians in their choices. Our results show that some clinical, radiological, and microbiological features can help distinguish patients to treat or not to treat. Moreover, treatment with parenteral beta-lactams appears to be effective, but targeted oral therapy could be a valid alternative.

This retrospective case-matched study evaluated males and females with staphylococcal PJI (periprosthetic joint infection) treated with two-stage exchange arthroplasty. We matched 156 males and females for age, type of staphylococcal infection, and joint involved. We compared clinical parameters related to presentation, treatment, and outcome. We did not find a statistically significant difference in outcome between males and females treated with the same surgical approach at our institution.