Periprosthetic Joint Infection Center

The OrthoCarolina Periprosthetic Joint Infection Center is a specialized clinic focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infections that occur around joint replacement implants. We provide advanced, coordinated care for patients experiencing complications following hip or knee replacement surgery.

Periprosthetic joint infections are complex conditions that require highly specialized management. Patients are often referred after initial evaluation elsewhere, particularly when infection is suspected but difficult to confirm or treat. Our center brings together orthopedic surgeons, infectious disease specialists, and supporting care teams to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based treatment.

What Is a Periprosthetic Joint Infection?

A periprosthetic joint infection occurs when bacteria or other pathogens infect the area surrounding an artificial joint implant. This can develop shortly after surgery or years later.

While uncommon, affecting fewer than 1 percent of joint replacement patients, these infections are serious and require prompt, specialized intervention to protect joint function and overall health.

Signs and Symptoms of Joint Infection

Patients with a suspected periprosthetic joint infection may experience:

• Persistent joint pain after joint replacement
• Swelling or warmth around the surgical site
• Redness or drainage from the incision
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Fever or chills in some cases
• Loosening or failure of the joint implant
• Delayed or incomplete recovery after surgery

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis is critical and may include:

• Laboratory testing for infection markers
• Joint aspiration and fluid analysis
• Advanced imaging studies
• Intraoperative tissue sampling when needed
• Collaboration with infectious disease specialists

Our team works to confirm infection early and identify the most effective treatment approach for each patient.

Multidisciplinary, Specialized Care

Our Periprosthetic Joint Infection Center is integrated within the OrthoCarolina Hip and Knee Center, allowing seamless coordination of care.

Our team approach includes:

• Orthopedic joint reconstruction specialists
• Infectious disease physicians
• Surgical and inpatient care teams
• Microbiology and laboratory support
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy providers

This collaborative model ensures every aspect of care is aligned toward infection eradication and functional recovery.

Research and Innovation

Our center is actively involved in advancing the understanding and treatment of periprosthetic joint infections. We continually evaluate evolving surgical techniques, antibiotic protocols, and reconstruction strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Referrals and Contact

For PJI-related questions, referrals, or consultation requests:

• Phone: 704-323-3854
• Fax: 704-323-3934
• Email: daniela.gustaitis@orthocarolina.com

• Treatment Options

  Treatment is individualized based on infection severity, timing, organism type, and implant stability.

  Our center offers advanced surgical and non-surgical management strategies, including:

  • DAIR procedure (Debridement, Antibiotics, and Implant Retention)
  • One-stage revision arthroplasty
  • Two-stage revision arthroplasty (resection and reimplantation)
  • Long-term targeted antibiotic therapy in collaboration with infectious disease specialists
  • Girdlestone procedure (resection arthroplasty) in select cases
  • Joint fusion procedures when reconstruction is not feasible
  • Amputation in severe, limb-threatening infection cases

  Each treatment plan is tailored to optimize infection control, pain relief, and long-term function.