Antibiotic prophylaxis in orthopaedic surgery: A review of evidence and best practices

Abstract

The use of prophylactic antibiotics in Orthopaedic and Trauma surgery is well-established. Superficial and periprosthetic joint infections are dreaded complications that increase mor- bidity, disability, and mortality. Despite the various guidelines and the wide employment of antibiotics, there is still controversy about their optimal use. The main factors that have to be taken into account are the choice of the most effective antibiotic, the timing of admin- istration, and the duration of the treatment. This review deepens into the evidence behind commonly argued topics in antibiotic prophylaxis and highlights the fundamental aspects that lead our current practice.