Handmade Articulating Antibiotic-Impregnated Spacer Production Techniques

Handmade articulating space fabrication

Abstract

We demonstrate the technique of Handmade Articulating Antibiotic Impregnated Spacer (HAAIS) with better anatomical conformity, flexible Antibiotic selection and less costly. The fabrication starts with preoperative sizing of the possible defect, fabrication of k-wire endoskeleton/sterilization, and antibiotic selection based on bacterial sensitivity. Following the debridement and removal of the infected prosthesis, the HAAIS is moulded to conform to the defect obtained. The cement powder was mixed thoroughly with antibiotics before adding the monomer and mixing. The cement is moulded over the K-wire endoskeleton to the required size. The spacer is then pressed fit after curing or shortly before curing is completed. The joint function and muscle action are preserved with post-operative physiotherapy. Control of infection in the management of prosthetic joint infection (PJI), joint mobility, and partial weight-bearing ambulation was achieved using this method.