What is Antibiotic Stewardship in Orthopaedics in 2025?

Antibiotic stewardship has been identified as a high priority by numerous government agencies, regulatory bodies, professional medical societies, and hospital systems. Orthopaedic surgeons' engagement in antibiotic stewardship programs will help to achieve optimal patient outcomes and compliance with regulatory bodies regarding antibiotic use. It is important to (1) outline a brief history of antibiotic stewardship, (2) define its role in the practice of orthopaedics (specifically highlighting total joint arthroplasty, trauma, and spine literature), and (3) provide an overview of the ways and means in which orthopaedic practitioners can ensure the evidence-based practice of antibiotic stewardship.