Local antibiotic carriers in the surgical management of pyogenic spondylodiscitis : First comparative evaluation of gentamicin-loaded versus vancomycin-loaded efficacy.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative gentamicin versus vancomycin-loaded PerOssal (Osartis, Münster, Germany) carriers on interbody fusion rates and infection control in patients undergoing surgery for pyogenic spondylodiscitis.

Methods: This retrospective study included 29 patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis who underwent surgical debridement, interbody fusion, and pedicle screw fixation between February 2018 and March 2023. Patients received PerOssal carriers loaded with either gentamicin (Group A, n = 14) or vancomycin (Group B, n = 15). Clinical outcomes, including fusion rates, infection control, complications, and inflammatory markers, were analyzed.

Results: Baseline characteristics between groups were comparable. Fusion rates at 3-6 months' follow-up were 92.8% (13/14) in Group A and 80.0% (12/15) in Group B, without significant differences (P > 0.05). Both groups showed significant reductions in white blood cell counts and C‑reactive protein levels postoperatively, without inter-group differences (P > 0.05). Complications included cerebrospinal fluid leakage, hematoma, pulmonary embolism, and wound infections, all managed successfully with no recurrent infections observed.

Conclusion: In the short term, PerOssal carriers loaded with either gentamicin or vancomycin demonstrated effective infection control for pyogenic spondylodiscitis and high interbody fusion rates. Moreover, no apparent adverse effects on bone healing were associated with the local administration of high-concentration antibiotics.