Intermittent active motion versus immobilization in the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus-induced arthritis in a rabbit model.

Hamel, Antoine; Caillon, Jocelyne; Jacqueline, Cédric; Batard, Eric; Boutoille, David; Bugnon, Denis; Miégeville, Anne-Françoise; Rogez, Jean-Michel et al. · J Child Orthop · 2008

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

This study has evaluated the effects of immobilization versus intermittent active motion on cartilage and on antibiotic efficacy in a rabbit septic arthritis model. Rabbits were infected and assigned to one of four groups: group 1, no treatment without immobilization (allowing intermittent active motion); group 2, cast; group 3, oxacillin without immobilization; group 4, oxacillin and cast. Animals were sacrificed 21 days later. Bacterial counts and lateral radiograms were performed. A radiological score was calculated. Immobilization had no effect on oxacillin efficacy and a deleterious effect on the radiological score. Intermittent active motion has allowed a better cartilage healing during the treatment of septic arthritis.