Periprosthetic joint infection (also known as septic failure) is among the most challenging complications associated with joint replacement. A periprosthetic joint infection develops when bacteria or other foreign organisms enter the wound during joint replacement surgery or following the surgical procedure -- sometimes years later.

Periprosthetic joint infection is typically associated with increased pain and there can be loosening of the prosthesis. Consequently, there is often the need for revision surgery. Research has shown that, in the United States, periprosthetic infection is the leading cause of total knee replacement revision (25%) and the second-leading cause of total hip replacement revision (15%).

It's important to know whether joint failure is due to infection or not since treatment of septic versus aseptic joint failure is not the same. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) issued guidelines in 2010 for the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infections of the hip and knee. Serum CRP testing was among the guidelines. But, researchers are now suggesting that measuring CRP in synovial fluid may be superior to CRP in serum when diagnosing periprosthetic joint infection. Finalized data may not come for another year or so, but according to the report on OrthoSuperSite.com, researchers are optimistic that their findings will make diagnosing periprosthetic joint infection less challenging.

Related Resources:

• What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?
• Hip Replacements Can Loosen
• Joint Replacement Screening Quiz - Is the Time Right?
• More About Joint Replacement

Join the Discussion: Arthritis Forum Follow Us: Twitter and Facebook Sign Up: Free Arthritis Newsletter

Photo by Jasmin Awad (iStockphoto)