Orthopedic prosthetic infections are potentially devastating complications. Plastic
surgeons are frequently consulted to aid in the management of the soft tissue defects
that are created by these infections. A review of the existing literature was performed
to identify established treatment methods for soft tissue coverage of orthopedic hardware
infections for a variety of anatomic locations. The following treatment guidelines
and soft tissue reconstructive options were identified as viable options for the management
of exposed or infected orthopedic hardware. This review provides descriptions of the
various soft tissue reconstructive options available as well as adjunctive treatment
methods.
Keywords
orthopedic prosthetic infections - plastic surgery