Haotian Zhou,1,2,* Yaji Yang,1,2,* Yanhao Zhang,3 Feilong Li,1,2 Yidong Shen,4 Leilei Qin,1,2 Wei Huang1,2 

1Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People’s Republic of China; 2Orthopedic Laboratory of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People’s Republic of China; 3College of Pharmacy, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Orthopaedics, The First People’s Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, 224000, People’s Republic of China

*These authors contributed equally to this work

Correspondence: Leilei Qin; Wei Huang, Email 253505921@qq.com; huangwei68@263.net

Abstract: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a catastrophic complication following joint replacement surgery, posing significant challenges to orthopedic surgeons. Due to the lack of a definitive diagnostic gold standard, timely treatment initiation is problematic, resulting in substantial economic burdens on patients and society. In this review, we thoroughly analyze the complexities of PJI and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The article specifically focuses on the advancements in diagnostic techniques, ranging from traditional pathogen culture to advanced molecular diagnostics, and discusses their role in enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Additionally, we review the latest surgical management strategies, including everything from debridement to revision surgeries. Our summary aims to provide practical information for the diagnosis and treatment of PJI and encourages further research to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Keywords: arthroplasty, periprosthetic joint infection, PJI, molecular diagnosis, pathogenesis diagnosis, antibiotic application, recurrence of infection