The axilla is the location of manysebaceous glandsand hair follicles that create an environment that fosters bacterial growth.
Preventing Infections
Shoulder surgery is a treatment used for conditions ranging fromshoulder arthritistorotator cuff tears.
These procedures can be done as minimally invasivearthroscopic surgeriesor as more traditional open surgeries with larger incisions.
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Is It an Infection?
Early diagnosis and treatment will prevent progression and lead to a better outcome.
If your incision is draining, the fluid from the wound can be examined to identify infectious organisms.
The most common types of bacteria that cause infection after shoulder surgery includeStaph infections(bothS.
epidermis) and Propionibacterium infections (P.acnes).
acnesare unusual and are typically associated with the shoulder joint.
In general, more superficial (closer to the skin) infections can be managed with antibiotics.
The areas around surgical implants, such as anchors, plates, or prosthetic replacements, can become infected.
Infections associated with implants can be severe and may require intense treatment.
Sometimes persistent infections necessitate the removal of implanted material.
Rare but Serious
Shoulder infections are uncommoncomplications of shoulder surgery.
If you have any signs of an infection, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are ideal.
UW Medicine Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.Arthroscopic shoulder surgery for the treatment of rotator cuff tears.
2018;2(12):e093.
2017;29(1):50-53.
