Prosthetic joint sample culture (tkr thr)
Microbiology
Notes
Patients should be antibiotic-free for at least 7 days before a biopsy is performed
- Contact the laboratory before sending and inform us if urgent or routine
- Please indicate the patient location (ward) on the request form
- Please send separate samples if histology is required
- Suspected prosthetic joint infections (PJI) should be investigated by sending up to 6 separate samples from the affected area. Swab and fluid samples may also be of value.
- Two or more samples growing the same organism is suggestive of prosthetic joint infection
- Each sample should be taken with a separate sterile scalpel.
- Microscopy is only of value in cases of acute prosthetic joint infection
- The laboratory is currently unable to accept whole prostheses either for storage or microbiological analysis
- See also:
Sample requirements
Place each sample in a separate, dry, sterile leak proof container
e.g. 60 mL widemouth container or directly into a universal tube containing Ballotini beads and enrichment broth if the samples are taken whilst in an operating theatre.
DO NOT ADD FORMALIN
Clearly label each sample with the site
Required information
- Date of original surgery
- Intended first or second stage revision
- Recent, current and intended antibiotics
- Intended antibiotics in cement
Storage/transport
Transport to the laboratory immediately. Refrigerate samples if transport is delayed.
Turnaround time
Microscopy results (if performed) available on day of receipt
A preliminary report is issued after 2 - 4 days. All cultures undergo an extended incubation period for anaerobes and fungi.
Final culture results: up to 20 days