Prevention of an Infection After a Total Joint Replacement

You have undergone a total joint replacement procedure. There are instances where infection in one part of your body may cause bacteria to circulate in your blood, possibly resulting in infection at the site of your implant. Therefore, it is essential that you seek prompt treatment of infections anywhere in your body. The signs of an infection in your total joint implant might include pain, swelling, fever, warmth over the joint, or other unusual symptoms. You should contact our office if you have any concerns that you might have an infection in your total joint implant. You should contact your physician or your dentist if you have any concerns that you might have an infection in other areas of your body.
 
Dental Care
Good dental hygiene is important and you should see your dentist for regular dental care whether or not you are having a dental problem. Before you have any dental procedure we recommend that you take 2 grams of cephalexin (Keflex) one hour prior to the procedure. If you are allergic to cephalexin or penicillin or are unable to take cephalexin (Keflex) for any other reason we recommend that you take clindamycin 600 mg one hour before the procedure. Your dentist can order that for you, or you can contact our office at (360) 254-6161 for a prescription prior to your dental appointment. These guidelines should be followed for the rest of your lifetime.
 
Other Invasive Procedures
When having any type of surgery or invasive procedure, it is important to inform your doctor who will be performing the procedure that you have had a total joint replacement. Your doctor can then make the determination of whether or not prophylactic antibiotics are needed. Please contact our office at (360) 254-6161 if you have any questions prior to your surgery.