Advertisement for orthosearch.org.uk
Orthopaedic Proceedings Logo

Receive monthly Table of Contents alerts from Orthopaedic Proceedings

Comprehensive article alerts can be set up and managed through your account settings

View my account settings

Visit Orthopaedic Proceedings at:

Loading...

Loading...

Full Access

VACUUM-ASSISTED CLOSURE IN THE TREATMENT OF EARLY HIP JOINT INFECTIONS



Abstract

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of the vacuum–assisted closure (V.A.C.) therapy in the treatment of early hip joint infections.

Patients and Methods: 28 patients (11 m/17 f; mean age 71 y. [43–84]) with early hip joint infections have been treated by means of the V.A.C.–therapy. At least one surgical procedure [1–7] has been unsuccessfully performed for infection treatment prior to V.A.C. – application. Pathogen organisms could have been isolated in 22/28 wounds. During revision, cup inlay and prosthesis head have been exchanged and 1–3 polyvinylalcohol sponges inserted into the wound cavity/periprosthetically at an initial continuous pressure of 200 mm Hg. Postoperatively, a systemic antibiosis was given according to antibiogram.

Results: 48–72 h after surgery an alteration from haemorrhagic to serous fluid was observed in the V.A.C.-canister. Afterwards, the pressure was decreased to 150 mm Hg and remained at this level till sponge removal. After a mean period of 9 [3–16] days the inflammation parameters have been retrogressive and the sponges were removed. An infection eradication could be achieved in 26/28 cases. In the two remaining cases the infected prosthesis had to be explanted and a gentamicin-vancomycin-loaded spacer has been implanted, respectively. At a total mean follow-up of 36 [12–87] months no reinfection or infection persistence was observed.

Discussion: The V.A.C.-system can be a valuable contribution in the treatment of early joint infections when properly used. Indications should be early infections with well-maintained soft-tissues for retention of the vacuum.

Correspondence should be addressed to: EFORT Central Office, Technoparkstrasse 1, CH – 8005 Zürich, Switzerland. Email: office@efort.org