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- Talk
- 21/09/2021
- UK
Knowledge into Practice - Infection Research Update
Description
In this session, Jamie Ferguson discusses the complexities surrounding fracture-related infections (FRI) during a medical conference. He reflects on the theme of infection, emphasizing the necessity for a standardized terminology within trauma care. At the heart of his presentation is the FRI consensus, derived from expert meetings in 2017 and 2019, which has defined the umbrella term 'fracture-related infection' to encompass various infection types in orthopedic cases. Jamie outlines diagnostic challenges due to variable definitions of infection in existing literature, stressing the importance of consistency in terminology to enable better communication and research outcomes. Additionally, he critiques current research limitations, highlighting a prevalent reliance on single-sensor case studies, and the obstacles in executing randomized controlled trials for infections.
Jamie takes the audience through the diagnostic algorithm for suspected FRI, differentiating between confirmed infections and those with suggestive signs, including factors like fever and wound discharge. Surgical exploration is recommended when these suggestive signs persist. He also touches upon the OVIVA trial, comparing oral and intravenous antibiotics, concluding that there are no significant differences in treatment efficacy, thus promoting the shift toward oral antibiotic therapies aimed at cost reduction and better patient management.
The session progresses to discuss emerging ideas around local antibiotic delivery, particularly in cases of open fractures, where traditional systemic delivery might not be viable due to disrupted blood flow. By leveraging local antibiotics, clinicians can potentially prevent infection through higher localized concentrations. Jamie concludes by emphasizing the critical need for continued research and innovation in antibiotic delivery methods and treatment strategies for fracture-related infections, engaging the audience with insights on local antibiotics and their potential for prophylactic use in high-risk patient groups. The subsequent discussions reflect on how medical professionals navigate the vast landscape of infection diagnosis and management, implementing newfound understandings from ongoing research and consensus-building efforts.