Management of Periprosthetic Total Knee Infection with Partial Hardware Removal: A Case Report
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a devastating complication, particularly in patients with associated periarticular hardware. Traditional two-stage revisions recommend complete hardware removal to ensure full resolution of the infection; however, this decreases mechanical stability, introduces susceptibility to fractures, and larger incisions with soft tissue disruption. Case Repot: We report the case of a 67-year-old male with a chronic PJI following TKA and distal femur fixation. The infected prosthesis and intra-articular plate segment were removed, while the proximal portion of the plate was retained for stability. The infection was eradicated following staged revision and targeted antibiotic therapy. At the 29-month follow-up, the patient remained infection-free and able to bear full weight. Conclusion: This case illustrates that partial hardware retention may be a viable alternative in select patients requiring both infection control and structural preservation.
Institution: University of Toledo Medical Center
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $250
OpenAlex ID: W7225592972
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