Next-Generation Sequencing in Periprosthetic Joint Infections

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is 1 of the most dreaded complications following total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty. Early diagnosis and optimal treatment are critical for managing PJI, and accurate detection of causative pathogens may be aided by recently available nucleic acid–based diagnostics. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has demonstrated particular value in culture-negative PJI cases and in detection of atypical organisms. The use of NGS can provide substantial benefits to antimicrobial stewardship in PJI treatment. NGS facilitates earlier and more effective treatment interventions for PJI patients by enabling the rapid and precise identification of pathogens. This technology is especially crucial for detecting rare, novel, or polymicrobial infections, which traditional diagnostic methods often fail to identify.