Successful prophylactic measures for the eradication of Staphylococcus aureus infections in elective hip primary and revision arthroplasty.

Introduction: Staphylococcus aureus stands as the predominant etiological agent in postoperative acute prosthetic joint infections (PJI), contributing to 35-50% of reported cases. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dual prophylaxis incorporating cefuroxime and teicoplanin, in combination with nasal decolonization utilizing 70% alcohol, and oral and body lavage with chlorhexidine.

Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective review of electronic health records regarding primary and revision arthroplasties conducted at our institution from 2020 to 2021. Relevant variables linked to prosthetic joint infections (PJI) were documented until the latest follow-up.

Results: A total of 539 operations (447 primary arthroplasties and 92 revision arthroplasties) were performed on 519 patients. There were 11 cases of postoperative acute PJI, resulting in infection rates of 1.6% for primary arthroplasties and 4.3% for revision surgeries. Infections were more prevalent in male patients, individuals with an ASA classification>II, and those undergoing longer operations (>90min). S. aureus was not isolated in any of the cases.

Conclusion: The prophylactic measures implemented in our institution have exhibited a high efficacy in preventing postoperative acute PJI caused by S. aureus.