Escherichia hermannii: A Rare Pathogen in Implant-Associated Infection Following a Type III C Open Distal Radius Fracture - A Case Report.

Introduction: Escherichia hermannii is an infrequent monomicrobial pathogen in human infections. Notably, it has never been documented as the sole isolate in cases of infected radial shaft fractures. Case Report: This report presents a case of a non-union in a distal third radius shaft fracture associated with an E. hermannii-infected implant that remained in situ. The patient, who suffered a crush injury 3 months prior, initially underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a fibula strut graft secured with a titanium plate, along with primary wound closure. However, after 12 weeks, he developed an infection at the implant site, accompanied by a sinus tract. To address this complication, a repeat debridement was performed, and a retention strategy was implemented, allowing the original implant to be preserved. Conclusion: The patient was treated with intravenous meropenem for 7 days, followed by an 11-week course of oral ciprofloxacin. At the conclusion of treatment, he remained free of infection, asymptomatic, and was able to continue working with excellent functional outcomes.