Amplification-based DNA analysis in the diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection.

Microbiological cultures are moderately sensitive for diagnosing prosthetic joint infection (PJI). This study was conducted to determine whether amplification-based DNA methods applied on intraoperative samples could enhance PJI diagnosis compared with culture alone in routine surgical practice. Revision arthroplasty was performed for suspected PJI (n = 41) and osteoarthrosis control (n = 28) patients, and a diagnosis of PJI was confirmed in 34 patients.

Development and evaluation of biocompatible films of polytetrafluoroethylene polymers holding lithium phthalocyanine crystals for their use in EPR oximetry.

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry is a powerful technology that allows the monitoring of oxygenation in tissues. The measurement of tissue oxygenation can be achieved using lithium phthalocyanine (LiPc) crystals as oxygen reporters. In order to have biocompatibility for the sensing system and to assure long-term stability in the responsiveness of the system, we developed films of Teflon AF 2400 with embedded LiPc crystals.