Journal of Orthopaedic Reports (Apr 2025)
Bacterial pathogens in orthopedic implant infection and their resistance to antimicrobial therapy: A retrospective analysis
Abstract
Background: Orthopedic implant infections pose a significant challenge in healthcare due to increasing rates and the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. This study aims to retrospectively analyze bacterial pathogens causing orthopedic implant infections and their resistance patterns to antimicrobial therapy. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted at Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January 2022 to August 2023. Pus samples from indoor patients were cultured, and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using standard microbiological methods. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. Results: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia coli were the most common pathogens isolated. The majority of Staphylococcus aureus isolates were methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and exhibited high resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and moxifloxacin. Pseudomonas showed alarming resistance to meropenem, while Escherichia coli demonstrated high resistance to amikacin and cefoperazone/sulbactam. Klebsiella exhibited severe resistance to amikacin and meropenem. Discussion: MRSA, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia coli were identified as predominant MDR pathogens causing orthopedic implant infections. Empirical treatment should consider local resistance patterns to optimize patient outcomes. Measures to combat MDR infections, including regional antibiograms and awareness campaigns, are imperative. Conclusion: Orthopedic implant infections caused by MDR pathogens pose a significant clinical challenge, necessitating judicious antimicrobial use and proactive infection control measures. Further research on larger populations is warranted to refine treatment strategies and combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance in orthopedic surgery.
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