Treatment of infected total knee arthroplasty

The primary aim of treating infected knee joints after total knee arthroplasty is to eradicate the infection, but this is difficult to achieve. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis affecting multiple joints and active patients with osteoarthritis, revision achieves the best functional outcome. If there is no loosening, preservation of the implant should be attempted. However, if preservation is not possible, revision should be performed when feasible. We believe that patient education is needed to encourage early attendance at the first sign of infection, as well as a hospital system that allows treatment to be started immediately after infection is detected.