Skip to main content
727-938-1935 DRIVING DIRECTIONS

Is Antibiotic Pre-treatment Necessary for Hip Replacement Patients?

Orthopedic Specialists Blog Is Antibiotic Pre-treatment Necessary for Hip Replacement Patients?
Dentist and patient

If you have had a hip replacement, you might wonder whether you should take antibiotics as a precaution against infection (antibiotic prophylaxis). About one in 100 arthroplasty patients develop a prosthetic joint infection (PJI), and the effects can create serious complications. The debate continues over what role oral bacteria play in creating serious conditions like bacteremia and whether dentists should use antibiotic prophylaxis on total joint arthroplasty patients. 

Studies offer conflicting information, but the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Dental Association have jointly developed guidelines for antibiotic pre-treatment to reduce the risk of post-surgical infection. They focus on some at-risk and immune-compromised patients. 

The AAOS acknowledges that the chance of oral bacteria causing joint infection is “extremely low,” but because the consequences of infection can be devastating, the organization gives physicians discretion in prescribing prophylactic antibiotics before dental work.

If it has been more than 18 months after a routine arthroplasty, there appears to be little to no need to pre-treat before a dental procedure.

If you have had a total hip replacement, talk to your general practitioner or your orthopedic surgeon about whether you should ask for antibiotics before visiting the dentist. 

To schedule an evaluation with our doctors, call 727 496-2391. 

Author
Marie Eide Marie Eide is the social media and content strategist at Orthopedic Specialists. She has been writing in the healthcare space for 15 years. All content is reviewed by our physicians.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Osteoarthritis of the knee illustration

Do You Need Surgery for Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a condition of wear and tear on the joints. The U.S. sees more than 3 million new cases each year. Here's how our Palm Harbor arthritis experts can treat it.
Jeff F., surgical and clinical assistant at Orthopedic Specialists of Palm Harbor

Patient Care Spotlight - Jeff F.

Jeff F. is a clinical assistant, athletic trainer and just recently became a surgical assistant. Each month we highlight an Orthopedic Specialists team member who makes a difference in our patients' well-being.
Dr. Andrew Maser and Annie R. at the clinic and in surgery.

Patient Care Spotlight - Annie R.

Surgical technician and physician assistant Annie R. is getting ready to hang up her scrubs after nearly three decades of caring for patients in our clinic.