Autofluorescence Imaging During Surgery for Orthopedic Infection: A Prospective Feasibility Case Series

Background/Objectives: Intraoperative assessment of infected and nonviable tissue remains challenging in orthopedic surgery. This prospective case series evaluated the technical feasibility of VELscope® autofluorescence imaging during surgery for orthopedic infection.

Methods

Thirteen patients undergoing surgery for hip or knee periprosthetic joint infection or spondylodiscitis were included. Autofluorescence was assessed qualitatively before and after conventional debridement by the operating surgeon, without quantitative thresholds or independent, blinded image assessment. Microbiological and histopathological findings from selected sampled areas were summarized at the patient level.

Results