Abstract
Hip arthroplasty is a common procedure, but Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a serious postoperative complication associated with increased hospital stays, readmissions, and costs. Evidence suggests that poor oral health may contribute to PJIs through the spread of bacteria from the mouth to the surgical site. This project examined the relationship between preoperative dental health and postoperative outcomes in adults aged 50–90 undergoing hip replacement. A literature review using the Johns Hopkins Research Evidence Appraisal Tool evaluated 19 studies from databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect. While no clear association was found between specific dental risk factors and PJIs, untreated dental issues were linked to failed clearance for surgery. Addressing dental conditions prior to surgery was associated with fewer infections, improved recovery indicators, and lower levels of C-reactive protein. Overall, findings support incorporating preoperative dental screenings, including tools like the Oral Health Assessment Tool, into surgical preparation. Implementing these screenings may reduce infection rates by up to 50–90% and improve outcomes following hip arthroplasty.
Included in
Role of Dental Screening in Preventing Hip Prosthetic Joint Infections
Hip arthroplasty is a common procedure, but Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a serious postoperative complication associated with increased hospital stays, readmissions, and costs. Evidence suggests that poor oral health may contribute to PJIs through the spread of bacteria from the mouth to the surgical site. This project examined the relationship between preoperative dental health and postoperative outcomes in adults aged 50–90 undergoing hip replacement. A literature review using the Johns Hopkins Research Evidence Appraisal Tool evaluated 19 studies from databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect. While no clear association was found between specific dental risk factors and PJIs, untreated dental issues were linked to failed clearance for surgery. Addressing dental conditions prior to surgery was associated with fewer infections, improved recovery indicators, and lower levels of C-reactive protein. Overall, findings support incorporating preoperative dental screenings, including tools like the Oral Health Assessment Tool, into surgical preparation. Implementing these screenings may reduce infection rates by up to 50–90% and improve outcomes following hip arthroplasty.