Prosthetic joint infections.

Prosthetic joint infections represent a major therapeutic challenge for both healthcare providers and patients. This article reviews the predisposing factors, pathogenesis, microbiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prophylaxis of prosthetic joint infection. The most optimal management strategy should be identified on the basis of a number of considerations, including type and duration of infection, antimicrobial susceptibility of the infecting pathogen, condition of infected tissues and bone stock, patient wishes, and functional status.