Orthopaedic implants and infections: current status and future prospects

Abstract

Orthopedic implants are used to replace articulating surfaces of damaged joints. The surgical procedure involves removal of the damaged joint and a replacement by an artificial joint (referred to as prosthesis). Prostheses are mainly used for hip, knee, shoulder and elbow replacements. The most important reasons to choose for an arthroplasty are to provide pain relief, enhance mobility of the patient, and restore the function of the joint1. This thesis will primarily focus on total hip arthroplasty (THA), a common joint replacement.