Infographic: Can the oncology classification system be used for prosthetic joint infection?

Prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are some of the most relevant complications in arthroplasty. Despite their enormous impact on patients and on the healthcare system, a generally accepted classification system for PJIs is missing. We have presented an idea and rationale on a new PJI classification system based on the TNM classification for malignant tumours in oncology in the editorial of this issue of Bone & Joint Research.¹

This infographic illustrates the meaning of three significant letters T, N, and M for this PJI-TNM classification, with ‘T’ representing the local situation of the tissue and the indwelling implant, ‘N’ standing for the causative non-human bacterial and/or fungal organisms, and ‘M’ representing the morbidity of the patient.

Regarding terminology, the name of the affected joint is put in front of the TNM letters in order to clearly state the affected body region, such as hip, knee, and shoulder. If it is a recurrence of infection, the letter ‘r’ is additionally put in front of the affected joint in order to emphasize reinfection.