Revised AAOS antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines

[stevel]

Yesterday, I had a dental exam and cleaning.  I received a handout, where the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) is now recommending antibiotics before dental procedures indefinitely for Total Joint Replacement patients.
Previously, the treatment ended after 2 years.  This includes total hip resurfacing patients since the metal devices is in contact with synovidal fluid.  The link to the guidelines is www.aaos.org/about/papers/advistmt/1033.asp.

[Pat Walter]

Thanks for the post Steve.  There have been many questions about taking antibiotics or not for dental work after a few years post of of a hip resurfacing or even THR.  I personally choose to take them, even at almost 4 years post op, and my dentist feels the same.

Sometimes the medical community does not agree on many things and we eventualy have to make up our own minds.

I prefer to be conservative and do everything possible to keep my BHR.

Pat

[FlbrkMike]

I don't yet have a specific date for my surgery, but I anticipate that it will happen in about 4 weeks.  I have a dental appointment next week for routine cleaning and plaque removal.  Is there any reason to consider taking anitbiotics during any time period before the surgery is done?

Thanks,
Mike

[andybc]

No, Mike. It's only after the op has been done.
Andy

[dw]

actually, it would be a good idea to consult your ortho and your dentist on it. While it's probably OK, best to ask those that will have their hands (literally) in your body.

[Lopsided]

I don't yet have a specific date for my surgery, but I anticipate that it will happen in about 4 weeks.  I have a dental appointment next week for routine cleaning and plaque removal.  Is there any reason to consider taking anitbiotics during any time period before the surgery is done?

Thanks,
Mike

You would definitely want to get as much dental work as possible done before surgery.