Fracture-Related Infections

Fracture-related infections are a challenging group of complications that vary from 1% after treating a close-low-energy fracture to over 30% in severe open fractures. Infections may lead to revision surgery, fracture delayed union, limb disfunction, or even amputations. In the clinical setting, the most frequent, but usually just associated to early presentations are local pain, elevated temperature, erythema, and edema. When these are present, infection should be ruled out. The presence of wound drainage or pus is considered pathognomonic of a fracture-related infection. The management of these infections requires a multidisciplinary approach, and the goal is focused on achieving fracture union, infection control, and a healed soft tissue envelope, preventing progression to a chronic infection, and restoring the limb function.