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Can I Have Colonscopy Post Hip Joint Replacement?
Question: I received a hip joint replacement at the end of October. Now my family doctor says I should have a colonoscopy. Isn't this dangerous? When I go to the dentist I have to take a large quantity of antibiotics to prevent any infection getting into the blood stream and going into the joint. Wouldn't a colonoscopy be even more dangerous? For example, when they remove polyps?
Brief Answer:
No evidence to support antibiotic use
Detailed Answer:
hi,
thanks for your question.
although common practice in many centres and for many surgeons to give antibiotic prophylaxis in procedures such as dental work and colonoscopy in patients who have total joint replacements there is no good scientific evidence to support this practice, in fact there is evidence to the contrary to say that antibiotic prophylaxis has no place.
as antibiotic administration rarely causes any significant adverse side effects and the results of a prosthetic joint infection are significant for the patient many surgeons continue to advise prophylaxis despite best evidence.
we have all seen the rare case of a joint infection after dental surgery or other significant infections or surgery.
armed with this information I think you can make an informed choice about whether you wish to take prophylaxis or not. you would find surgeons of both persuasions.
best wishes
No evidence to support antibiotic use
Detailed Answer:
hi,
thanks for your question.
although common practice in many centres and for many surgeons to give antibiotic prophylaxis in procedures such as dental work and colonoscopy in patients who have total joint replacements there is no good scientific evidence to support this practice, in fact there is evidence to the contrary to say that antibiotic prophylaxis has no place.
as antibiotic administration rarely causes any significant adverse side effects and the results of a prosthetic joint infection are significant for the patient many surgeons continue to advise prophylaxis despite best evidence.
we have all seen the rare case of a joint infection after dental surgery or other significant infections or surgery.
armed with this information I think you can make an informed choice about whether you wish to take prophylaxis or not. you would find surgeons of both persuasions.
best wishes
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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