Irrigation and debridement (I&D) may be a viable option in selected cases of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). Our aim was to investigate the role of multiple I&Ds. Among 141 patients with PJI treated with I&D in our institution, 19 were subjected to additional procedures. Their clinical characteristics were retrospectively reviewed and compared to the remaining patients treated with a single I&D. The probability of treatment failure (removal of implants) was not significantly different among the two groups. The interval between serial I&Ds was a significant factor determining outcomes. Patients treated with multiple I&Ds had a significantly higher prevalence of peripheral vascular disease. The decision to proceed with repeat of I&D should be made with caution.
Keywords: hip; knee; multiple irrigation and debridements; outcomes; periprosthetic joint infections.
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