Prevention and treatment of infectious complications in limb fractures using metal implants

Infectious complications are a serious problem in the treatment of long bone fractures. They can lead to significant weakening of recovery and even prolonged hospitalization for the patient. 
In this regard, the implementation of competent prevention and timely treatment of infectious complications is important. In this article, we analyzed the development of infectious complications in patients who underwent surgical interventions for fractures of the limbs and also after the installation of endoprostheses at the Talas Regional United Hospital. Peri-implant and periprosthetic infectious complications were observed in 20 patients; all patients underwent bacteriological examination of wound smears before and during surgery. Antibiotic prophylaxis was carried out taking into account culture and sensitivity to the antibiotic. Only in 3 cases was it possible to save the implant and stop the infection process; in all other cases, the implants and endopotheses were removed with arthrodesis of the joints and the use of an external fixation device. The wounds were kept open to prevent the accumulation of purulent discharge from the wounds. An analysis of strategies for the prevention and treatment of infectious complications in the treatment of long bone fractures was carried out. The results of previous studies, medical recommendations and clinical practices in this area were analyzed