Artificial Joint Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

An artificial joint can become infected when bacteria enter the body during or after joint replacement surgery. In some cases, these infections can be prevented by taking antibiotics before certain medical or dental procedures. Once an artificial joint becomes infected, treatment is often complex and may require joint replacement surgery and long-term antibiotic therapy.

Joint replacement surgery is commonly performed in individuals with severe joint disease. Compared to natural joints, artificial joints are more vulnerable to infection, especially when bacteria enter the bloodstream.

How Do Artificial Joint Infections Occur?

Bacteria can enter the bloodstream from several sources, including:

• Skin infections

• Dental procedures

• Catheter-related infections

• Urinary tract infections

• Pneumonia

• Any medical procedure involving instruments entering the body

Once bacteria circulate in the blood, they can attach to the artificial joint and trigger infectious arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Artificial Joint Infectious Arthritis

Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly and include:

• Swelling around the joint

• Persistent or worsening joint pain

• Reduced range of motion

In some cases, individuals experience ongoing joint pain while resting or bearing weight, even months after an initially successful recovery from surgery. Occasionally, corrective surgery is performed before symptoms become severe.

Prevention of Artificial Joint Infections

Individuals with artificial joints should always consult a healthcare professional before undergoing certain procedures.

Preventive antibiotics may be recommended before:

• Dental procedures

• Digestive tract procedures

• Urinary tract procedures

Before joint replacement surgery, doctors often screen for bacteria by taking a nasal swab. If bacteria are detected, an antibiotic ointment may be applied to reduce infection risk.

Management and Treatment

Treatment for an infected artificial joint is often lengthy and complex.

Common approaches include:

• Surgical removal of part or all of the infected joint

• Removal of surrounding infected tissue or abscesses

• Placement of a temporary antibiotic spacer

• Long-term intravenous or oral antibiotic therapy

In many cases, a new artificial joint is implanted 2–4 months later using antibiotic cement.

When Surgery Is Not Possible

For individuals who cannot tolerate surgery:

• Long-term antibiotic therapy may be used

• In severe cases, parts of the joint or bone may be removed

• Bones forming the joint may be fused or left unfused

In rare and severe situations where infection cannot be controlled, amputation of the affected limb may be required.

Why This Matters in First Aid & Workplace Safety

Artificial joint infections can progress quietly and become life-threatening if untreated. First aid and safety training helps individuals recognize persistent pain, swelling, and mobility changes early — prompting faster medical assessment and better outcomes.

Important Disclaimer

For Educational Purposes Only
This content is intended for first aid education and health awareness in Canada. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Anyone with an artificial joint experiencing pain, swelling, or reduced mobility should seek medical evaluation promptly.