Antibiotic prophylaxis in total joint arthroplasty – the usual practice and variability among joint replacement surgeons in Hong Kong

Abstract

Background Perioperative antibiotics is a well established measure to prevent periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, the usual practice of prescription vary from surgeon to surgeon. This study aims to investigate and compare the usual practice and variability of prescribing antibiotic prophylaxis among different joint replacement surgeons in Hong Kong. Methods An online questionnaire was prepared and sent to members of the Adult Joint Reconstruction (AJR) Chapter of the Hong Kong Orthopaedic Association (HKOA). The questionnaire consists of a total of 15 questions in 3 categories: choice of antibiotics, dose of antibiotics and duration of antibiotics prescribed by the surgeon. Results A total of 25 responses were received and data collected. Participants were from a diverse background from different hospitals with variable years of experience. Results showed a general consensus on the choice of antibiotics, but also a wide variability on the actual prescription, particularly about the weight-adjusted dose and total duration of antibiotics given. Conclusion There is a wide variability among surgeons regarding the actual prescription of antibiotic prophylaxis. Correlation between rate of PJI and specific aspects of antibiotic prescription is needed to give recommendations to surgeons regarding perioperative antibiotic usage in total joint arthroplasties.