Effectiveness of a combined arthroscopic and antibiotic-impregnated bead approach for septic shoulder arthritis management: a case series.

BACKGROUND

This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a combined treatment approach for septic shoulder arthritis involving arthroscopic synovectomy and use of antibiotic-impregnated polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads for localized antibiotic delivery.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 22 patients with septic shoulder arthritis treated at our institution between 2017 and 2023. The treatment involved arthroscopic lavage, debridement, and insertion of antibiotic-impregnated PMMA beads. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively based on laboratory tests, imaging, joint fluid analysis, and physical examination. Treatment efficacy was assessed based on normalization of C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, pain reduction as measured using a visual analog scale (VAS), and improvement in shoulder function according to Constant-Murley score.

RESULTS

All 22 patients demonstrated successful resolution of infection, with only one case of recurrence, leading to a notably low recurrence rate of 5%. Recurrence was determined based on clinical signs (aggravated pain, swelling, and fever) and laboratory markers (elevated CRP and white blood cell count). Mean follow-up duration was 20.2 months. Significant reductions in pain (average VAS score reduction from 8.1 to 2.4, P<0.001) were observed, and mean Constant-Murley score at final follow-up was 60.7, reflecting improved shoulder function.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic debridement combined with localized antibiotic delivery using PMMA beads is an effective and safe treatment for septic shoulder arthritis. This method offers substantial advantages over traditional treatments, as evidenced by the very low recurrence rate. Level of evidence: IV.