1996-2026

The ‘BIU’ began in 1996, in the Girdlestone Ward of the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre. It started with the novel idea to develop more collaborative working between infectious disease physicians and orthopaedic surgeons. The first ward had 16 beds. It was led by Prof. John Kenwright, Dr Tony Berendt, and the redoubtable Sister Honor Prout. It soon attracted specialist nurses and therapists focussed on patients with complex infections. Martin McNally developed the liaison with trauma and limb reconstruction and Bridget Atkins and Nick Athanasou led major studies on diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection.

In 2000 we started the weekly combined clinic system, where new patients are seen at a ‘triple’ appointment’ (infection physician, plastic surgeon and orthopaedic surgeon all together with the patient). In 2004, we opened the new hospital building which includes a purpose-designed, 26 bed, bone infection unit. We now have increasing referrals from all over the UK and abroad.

The Oxford BIU has become a major influence worldwide on development of protocols for diagnosis and management.  The Unit has published around 300 papers covering all aspects of bone and joint infection. Members of the unit contribute to many international consensus groups and collaborative initiatives.

Over 30 years, the BIU has flourished. It has expanded and changed, but it remains dedicated to providing multidisciplinary care from teams who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about infection.