Abstract
Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains one of the most challenging complications
after joint arthroplasty. Despite improvements in surgical techniques and in the use
of antibiotic prophylaxis, it remains a major cause of implant failure and need for
revision. PJI is associated with both human host-related and bacterial agentrelated
factors that can interact in all the phases of the procedure (preoperative, intraoperative
and postoperative). Prevention is the first strategy to implement in order to minimize
this catastrophic complication.
The present review focuses on the preoperative period, and on what to do once risk
factors are fully understood and have been identified.
Key Words
periprosthetic infection - risk factors - preoperative prevention
