The approach of orthopaedic and dental physicians to antibiotic prophylaxis for patients who have undergone total knee or total hip arthroplasty: A Questionnaire-Based Study.

BACKGROUND: The necessity of antibiotic prophylaxis before dental procedures in arthroplasty patients remains unsupported by strong evidence. The aim of this study was to determine the attitudes of dentists and othopedists towards antibiotic prophylaxis. METHODS: A 15-item questionnaire evaluating the demographic data of dentists and orthopaedic surgeons and their tendencies to administer antibiotic prophylaxis in various cases was delivered online. The data obtained were analyzed statistically using descriptive statistical methods and the Pearson Chi-square test. RESULTS: A total of 460 respondents completed the questionnaire; 104 dental practitioners, 146 dental specialists, and 210 orthopaedic surgeons. The distribution of the responses to four items in the questionnaire was similar between the orthopaedic surgeons and dentists (p > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was determined between orthopaedic surgeons and dentists in respect of the responses to 6 items (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The study results demonstrated that orthopaedic surgeons were more inclined to administer antibiotic prophylaxis than dentists. All participants were made aware of antibiotic prophylaxis.