Periprosthetic Infections of the Shoulder

* Periprosthetic joint infection is a major complication after both anatomical and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. * Factors such as diabetes mellitus and high body mass index play a role in increasing the risk of infection after shoulder arthroplasty. * Infection after shoulder surgery is caused by a variety of organisms, most of which, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes, are normal skin flora. * Treatment options include single-stage revision, 2-stage revision, component retention with irrigation and debridement, and treatment with antibiotics alone. The efficacy of these treatment modalities is discussed. * With the increasing prevalence of shoulder arthroplasty, preventive measures such as antibiotic prophylaxis and adequate surgical skin preparation are of the utmost importance.