Antibiotic Prophylaxis Protocol After Total Joint Replacement

The following precautions should be taken for AT LEAST TWO YEARS after total joint replacement to reduce the risk of infection around the implant. Patients at increased risk of infection should use antibiotic prophylaxis for the rest of their lifetime. These conditions include, and are not limited to:

1. Prior history of joint infection
2. Weakened immune system (Diabetes, Cancer, Organ Transplant Recipient, Hemophilia)
3. Chronic steroid usage
4. Malnutrition/poor nutrition
5. Inflammatory arthritis

Antibiotic prophylaxis is needed for the following procedures:

1. Dental procedures (cleaning, extractions, implants, periodontal work)
2. Gastrointestinal procedures (upper endoscopy, colonoscopy)
3. Genitourinary procedures (cystoscopy, TURP)

Antibiotic Recommendations:

• If you are not allergic to penicillin, take 2grams of Amoxicillin by mouth one hour prior to your procedure
• You are allergic to penicillin, take 600mg of Clindamycin by mouth one hour prior to your procedure

Please try to avoid scheduling any elective dental procedure for at 3 months following your joint replacement