Background: Orthopaedic implant infections are a common complication of any orthopaedic unit. A variety of microorganisms are implicated. Nosocomial or Hospital based pathogens are the major cause. Among these pathogens staphylococcal epidermidis is the leading cause following by Escherichia coli

This study is aimed to identity the major pathogens causing implant infections in a tertiary hospital.

Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study of 50 (fifty) patients who were admitted in Govt. Medical College, Trivandrum. All types of implant infection after trauma surgery which includes, intramedullary nails, plates, were included. Infected Arthroplasties of Hip and Knee are also included. Culture and sensitivity reports of infections were analyzed.

Results: Staphylococcus epidermidis (30) was the leading cause of implant infection followed by Escherichia coli, pseudomonas.

Conclusion: Hospital based or acquired infections are leading cause. Hence better hospital having theatre sterilisation maintenance would help to reduce the load of infection.

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Dr Sabarisree M

Additional Professor in Orthopaedics, Govt Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, India