Description
This presentation, led by Paddy Ashcroft, addresses the management of chronic infections and the surgery involved in treating these cases. Ashcroft begins by discussing the audience's experience in Aberdeen and highlights the importance of multidisciplinary teams (MDT) in patient care. He emphasizes the necessity for critical care beds and the relevance of surgical experience among the entire medical team, including anesthetists and physiotherapists.
The talk delves into surgical procedures for chronic infections, specifically one-stage and two-stage revisions, noting their benefits and drawbacks. Ashcroft explains recent changes in guidelines relating to methods of infection control and argues the advantages of one-stage surgeries, such as reduced morbidity and improved patient function. He contrasts this with the two-stage approach, which may be favored in immunocompromised patients or those with higher infection risks.
Through discussions on antibiotic protocols, local antibiotic delivery systems, and the surgery process, emphasizing the need for thorough debridement and careful selection of staging strategies, Ashcroft underscores the importance of tailored treatment and adherence to guidelines. He also explores the evolving standards of care, the significance of patient engagement in their treatment decisions, and the essential follow-up required in post-surgery scenarios to ensure favorable outcomes. Finally, Ashcroft critiques the current state of surgical practices in infections, advocating for a collaborative approach and continuous improvement in protocols.