Prevention of the Infected Fracture: Evidence-Based Strategies for Success!

Abstract

There is a significant burden of disease associated with infected fractures, and their management is challenging. Prevention of infection after musculoskeletal trauma is essential because treatment of an established infection continues to be a major obstacle. Despite the need for evidence-based decision making, there is a lack of consensus around strategies for prevention and surgical management of the infected fracture. The current evidence for the prevention of the infected fracture is reviewed here with a focus on evidence for antibiotic therapy and debridement, the induced membrane technique, management of soft-tissue defects, patient optimization, and adjuncts to prevent infection.