Prevention of periprosthetic joint infections : Not evidence-based strategies]

Surgical site infections are the most common nosocomial infections in orthopedic surgery. Strategies to prevent these infections are of enormous relevance. Evidence-based procedures such as hand disinfection, prophylactic antibiotic application, hair removal with electric clippers, or preoperative treatment of Staphyloccus aureus are listed in national and international guidelines. Beside these measures, several scientifically not confirmed methods, e.g., the administration of antibiotic prophylaxis for several days or the usage of helmets during surgery, are still practiced. These measures are not evidence-based and should not be performed anymore. Only the consequent implementation of evidence-based procedures can help prevent surgical site infections.