In vivo models of infection: Large animals – Mini review on human-scale one-stage revision in a porcine osteomyelitis model

Animal models are essential for orthopedic infectious research. However, only few models are currently able to capture the complex and multidisciplinary treatment approach for osteomyelitis. To replicate treatment situations in their entirety, large animal models are needed, and the most used species are sheep and pigs. Herein, we review a well-characterized and reproducible porcine model of human-scale one-stage revision of implant-associated osteomyelitis that can be used for robust preclinical testing of operative and post-operative interventions. The pros and cons of the model are discussed in the context of existing literature on large animal revision models.