Antibiotic-impregnated PMMA hip spacers: Current status

Abstract

The infection rate after primary hip arthroplasty lies at 1-2%. In the past few years, a two-stage protocol with the implantation of an antibiotic-loaded spacer has become a popular procedure in the treatment of infected hip joint arthroplasties. In this review, we pay special attention to the elution characteristics of the spacers, their mechanical stability and the clinical response. We conclude that hip spacers are an effective method in the treatment of hip joint infections, with success rates of over 90%.