Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for UCLA Health

Septic Arthritis

Criteria

Findings Consistent with Septic Arthritis:

Irritable joint exam AND some or all of the following:

  • Fever > 38.5°C

  • WBC > 12,000

  • ESR > 40mm/h

  • CRP > 2mg/dL (or <20mg/L)

  • Non weight bearing

Septic Arthritis Management

Keep NPO

Anesthesia and Radiology MUST be notified

Orthopaedic Staff Decision

  • Bedside aspiration vs. MRI

  • If uncertain clinically that there is a joint effusion, may consider ultrasound to confirm

Procedures

Bedside Aspiration

MRI without Contrast

Postoperative Management