Efficacy of New Silver-coated Prosthesis in Reducing the Incidence of Periprosthetic Infections

Among the various complications that can arise in orthopaedics following implant surgery, peri-prosthetic joint infections (Periprosthetic Joint Infection -PJI) represent one of the most feared complications and the main cause of revision surgeries (15% and 25% of hip and knee revision surgeries, respectively). In this complex context, prevention therefore plays a fundamental role and is a key objective considering the increasing number of patients considered to be at high risk such as the elderly, patients with recurrent infections (urinary, pulmonary, etc.), those suffering from diabetes mellitus or obese, the immunocompromised, or patients who have already undergone prosthetic surgery.

In order to reduce the risk of infection, it is therefore essential to adopt and implement preventive strategies that also involve the medical devices themselves, such as the development of passive surfaces capable of counteracting bacterial adhesion or active surfaces capable of exerting a direct action on micro-organisms. To achieve this second type of action, antibacterial agents, such as silver, known for its antimicrobial and bactericidal properties, are used.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients aged ≥ 18 years;
• Immunocompromised patients and/or diabetic patients.
• Patients who have given consent

Exclusion criteria

• Patients aged < 18 years;
• Pregnant women;