AAOS Revises Dental Protocol for Joint Arthroplasty
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by Teraya Smith
November 7, 2025
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3 min
An updated clinical practice guideline led by Dr. Charles P. Hannon from the Mayo Clinic indicates that routine antibiotic prophylaxis and preoperative dental screenings do not effectively reduce the risk of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) in patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty. The guideline, developed by a multidisciplinary workgroup and endorsed by several professional associations, is based on a systematic review of studies and highlights individualized management for certain patient subgroups. With increasing rates of arthroplasty procedures, the guideline underscores the importance of evidence-based medical care in managing infection risks.
1. Routine antibiotic prophylaxis does not lower PJI risk. 2. Preoperative dental screenings show no significant benefit. 3. Guidelines based on systematic reviews of 1,251 abstracts. 4. Individualized care is needed for certain patient subgroups. 5. Recommendations suggest intervals for dental procedures before/after arthroplasty. 6. PJIs affect 1-2% of total joint surgeries, with a projected cost of $1.85 billion by 2030. 7. Evidence-based treatment decisions should include patient preferences.
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