Title : Principles for antibiotic prophylaxis in joint replacement surgery
Abstract:
Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) remain one of the most serious complications of arthroplasty, associated with increased morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospitalisation, costly revision procedures, and long-term consequences for both patients and healthcare systems. Preventing SSI is therefore a key priority in orthopaedic surgery to safeguard outcomes and maintain the quality of care. Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis is a cornerstone of infection prevention in arthroplasty, although it is not a substitute for meticulous surgical technique or adherence to other essential perioperative measures. In the UK, the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) programme has recently issued updated guidance on antibiotic prophylaxis in joint replacement surgery, aiming to standardise practice, improve patient safety, and support antimicrobial stewardship. To evaluate local performance against these national standards, we conducted an audit of elective hip and knee arthroplasty cases at our institution, assessing compliance with the newly published GIRFT recommendations. Findings demonstrated areas of strong adherence alongside opportunities for improvement, highlighting the importance of regular review of perioperative protocols in line with evolving evidence and national guidance. By identifying gaps in practice and reinforcing best standards, this audit provides a platform for improving SSI prevention, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality orthopaedic care, and contributing to the wider efforts to minimise antimicrobial resistance.
