What Preoperative Optimization Should Be Implemented to Reduce the Risk of Surgical Site Infection/Periprosthetic Joint Infection (SSI/PJI) in Patients Undergoing Total Ankle Arthroplasty (TAA)?

Recommendation: We recommend that patients awaiting total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) be optimized prior to surgery by implementing skin cleansing, nutritional status enhancement, glycemic control, body mass index (BMI) optimization, smoking cessation, and management of immune-modulating comorbidities. At the time of surgery, there is strong evidence that optimal preparation of the surgical site with an alcohol-containing agent, weight-based and timely administration of antibiotic prophylaxis, and reducing operating room traffic should also be put in place. Level of Evidence: Moderate. Delegate Vote: Agree: 100%, Disagree: 0%, Abstain: 0% (Unanimous, Strongest Consensus).