INFECTION AT SITE OF JOINT REPLACEMENT

Infections can occur in joint replacements at any time and hence precautions need to be taken. If you have an infection anywhere or a fever you should be treated immediately by your local doctor.

Common sources of infection include urinary tract infections, infected toe nails, skin lesions, throat infections, gum or dental infections.

Recommendations for antibiotic prophylaxis are controversial. Most people agree that it is recommended for...

• dental work which may cause bleeding, and
• any endoscopic (bowel or bladder) which again may cause bleeding.

Essentially you should probably take the medication unless you are sure your doctor is not going to do anything apart from look.

The recommended prophylaxis is Amoxicillin 3g, 1 hour before and Amoxicillin 1.5g, 6 hours after procedure.

If you are allergic to penicillin the drug of choice is Erythromycin 1000mg before and 500mg after.