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Infections Complicating Orthopedic Surgery and Implants

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Healthcare-Associated Infections in Children

Abstract

Given the frequent utilization of devices and implants to provide stability and/or correct deformity, infections complicating orthopedic surgery in children can present management challenges. In these cases it is necessary to ensure both the eradication of infection and the successful healing of the initial orthopedic intervention. This requires a balance between thorough debridement of infected tissue and avoidance of unnecessary surgical procedures and attendant complications. Furthermore, in the skeletally immature child, consideration must be given to ensuring continued optimal growth. Such infections are best managed through a multidisciplinary approach including the orthopedic surgeon, infectious disease specialist, and generalist guided by laboratory data, clinical assessment, and risks/benefits of implant removal.

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Stinson, Z., Rosenfeld, S., McNeil, J.C. (2019). Infections Complicating Orthopedic Surgery and Implants. In: McNeil, J., Campbell, J., Crews, J. (eds) Healthcare-Associated Infections in Children. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-98122-2_9

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