Single-stage Surgery With Antibiotic-loaded Hydrogel Coated Implants Versus Two Stage Surgery for Secondary Prevention of Complex Chronic Periprosthetic Hip Joint Infection

When someone has a hip replacement, sometimes an infection can develop around the new joint. This can be a very challenging problem to treat. The usual approach involves two separate operations. First, the infected hip replacement parts are removed, and antibiotics are given, often for at least six weeks. During this time, patients don't have a new hip joint, which can be uncomfortable and make it hard to move around properly. Only then, in a second operation, are new hip replacement parts put in. This whole process means two hospital stays and a long recovery period.

This study is looking at a different approach: a single operation. In this single surgery, the infected parts are removed, and a brand new hip replacement is put in straight away. The key difference here is that the new hip replacement will have a special coating on it. This coating is designed to help prevent bacteria from sticking to the implant and forming a protective layer, which is how they often cause ongoing infections. If this single-stage surgery with the coated implant works well, it could mean a shorter time in hospital, less discomfort, and a quicker return to normal activities for patients.

The main goal of this research is to see if this single-stage surgery with the special coated implant is as effective as, or even better than, the current two-stage approach in getting rid of the infection for good. The hope is to find a simpler, more efficient way to help people who experience this kind of hip replacement infection.