Abstract
Even nowadays, infections of joint replacements represent a serious complication. The diagnosis of infectious complications must be quick and precise.
New diagnostic methods such as sonication, microcalorimetry, molecular genetic techniques, and mass spectrometry yield accurate results which can be used for the selection of the optimal therapeutic method. In recent years, an increase in single-stage reimplantation indications has been seen.
The successful implementation of a single-stage exchange reduces the duration of the patient's treatment as well as the costs thereof. The two-stage exchange is still the most commonly used treatment method in the Czech Republic.
Spacers still present an unresolved issue, for example in some types the reported rate of complications reaches as many as 58.5%. The latest and most promising solution is the use of factory produced, so-called "ready-made" spacers.
A new procedure for the management of massive bone defects after repeated re-implantation of the TKA is functional arthrodesis. Recently, new technologies have been researched, such as bacteria communication blockade in the biofilm, increased sensitivity to antibiotics, or smart implants.