Cultures in periprosthetic joint infections, the imperfect gold standard?

Culture-negative periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) are commonly described in theBy implementing a routine diagnostic workup and by optimizing tissue sampling and processing, the culture-negative rate can easily be reduced.When faced with a culture-negative PJI, several serological and molecular techniques are available that may aid in finding the causative microorganism. Clinical clues may guide the treating physician towards more atypical and rare microorganisms.A multidisciplinary team consisting of orthopaedic surgeons, microbiologists and infectious disease specialist are warranted in tailoring diagnostic testing and deciding on the surgical and antibiotic treatment approach.