Revision Hip Arthroplasty in the Infectious Setting

The number of total hip replacements performed annually in the United States continues to increase. Unfortunately, a small percentage of these succumb to prosthetic infection which carries significant burden not only for the patient but also from a socioeconomic standpoint. Numerous treatment and prevention strategies have evolved over time and include the use of antibiotics both systemically and locally. Patient selection has evolved as risk factors for infection have been identified. Case examples and associated imaging are provided to highlight specific obstacles that are often presented when managing prosthetic hip infections. Tips and tricks are shared in order to help tackle these difficult situations, and the author’s preferred method details the steps to successfully treat a typical prosthetic hip infection. The purpose of this chapter is to review the literature pertaining to infection prevention and eradication, show specific case examples, and share the author’s preferred method when dealing with a prosthetic hip infection.