Companion animal-associated bacterial pathogens and surgical site infections following orthopaedic procedures: implications for rehabilitation and return to physical activity – a narrative review

Abstract

Background. Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain among the most serious complications of orthopaedic procedures, resulting in prolonged treatment, impaired functional recovery, delayed rehabilitation, and increased healthcare costs. Although most orthopaedic SSIs are caused by endogenous microorganisms, increasing evidence indicates that companion animal-associated bacterial pathogens, including Pasteurella multocida, Capnocytophaga canimorsus, and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, may occasionally cause postoperative and implant-associated infections following close contact with dogs and cats.

Aim. To summarize current evidence regarding companion animal-associated bacterial pathogens implicated in orthopaedic surgical site infections, discuss their routes of transmission and clinical significance, and evaluate their implications for postoperative rehabilitation and return to physical activity.

Material and methods. A narrative review of the contemporary literature was conducted. Publications addressing orthopaedic surgical site infections, zoonotic bacterial pathogens associated with companion animals, prosthetic joint infections, postoperative rehabilitation, and return to physical activity were critically reviewed and synthesized to provide an integrated overview of current knowledge.

Results. The available evidence indicates that companion animal-associated orthopaedic infections are rare and is based predominantly on case reports, case series, and a limited number of review articles. Pasteurella multocida represents the most frequently reported zoonotic pathogen, followed by Capnocytophaga canimorsus and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Transmission may occur through animal bites, scratches, licking of healing wounds, or close household contact. Surgical site infections substantially delay rehabilitation by prolonging wound healing, necessitating additional surgical procedures and antimicrobial therapy, and postponing return to physical activity. Current evidence supports patient education and simple hygiene measures rather than restricting contact with companion animals during postoperative recovery.

Conclusions. Companion animal-associated bacterial pathogens should be considered in selected cases of postoperative and implant-associated orthopaedic infections, particularly in patients with a history of close contact with dogs or cats. Awareness of zoonotic transmission pathways, careful exposure history taking, and appropriate patient education may reduce preventable infections while preserving the psychological and social benefits of companion animal ownership. Further prospective studies are required to establish the true incidence of these infections and to develop evidence-based recommendations for postoperative care.