Bone Infection

 (Osteomyelitis): Causes

 and Treatment

What is Osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis is a serious infection of the bone, usually caused by bacteria (most commonly Staphylococcus aureus).
The infection can reach the bone through the bloodstream, nearby tissues, or direct contamination from an open wound or fracture.

What are the Types of Osteomyelitis?

Understanding the type of infection helps in deciding the right treatment.

1. Acute Osteomyelitis

   • Develops quickly, usually within two weeks after infection.

   • Common in children and caused by bacteria traveling through the bloodstream.

   • With early treatment, full recovery is possible.

2. Chronic Osteomyelitis

   • A long-term infection that may persist or recur.

   • Often develops after trauma or surgery.

   • Causes persistent pain, swelling, and bone damage.

3. Vertebral Osteomyelitis (Spinal Infection)

   • Affects the bones of the spine.

   • Common in adults and may lead to severe back pain and mobility issues.

4. Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis

   • Occurs when a long-standing diabetic foot ulcer becomes infected and spreads to the bone.

   • One of the most common complications in diabetic patients.

What are the Causes of Osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis typically occurs when bacteria or fungi enter the bone tissue. The infection can start in different ways:

1. Through the Bloodstream

Bacteria from another part of the body — such as the lungs, urinary tract, or skin — can travel through the bloodstream and infect a weakened bone.

2. From Nearby Infections

Infections in nearby tissues (like ulcers or wounds) can spread directly into the bone.

3. From Open Wounds or Surgery

Fractures that expose the bone or surgical procedures (like joint replacement or bone fixation) can introduce bacteria directly into the bone.

4. Weak Immune System

People with weak immune systems due to conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or HIV are more prone to bone infections.

Who is at Risk?

Certain factors increase the risk of developing osteomyelitis:

• Diabetes mellitus

• Recent bone injury or surgery

• Open fractures or wounds

• Poor blood circulation (Peripheral Artery Disease)

• Weakened immune system

• IV drug use

• Use of prosthetic implants or metal plates

What are the Common Symptoms of Osteomyelitis?

Symptoms vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic, but common signs include:

• Severe bone pain and tenderness

• Swelling, redness, and warmth over the infected area

• Fever and chills

• Fatigue and weakness

• Drainage or pus near the infected site

• Limited movement of the affected limb

• In chronic cases, persistent or recurrent pain even after treatment

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult an orthopedic doctor immediately to avoid complications.

How is Osteomyelitis Diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the cause and extent of infection. Common diagnostic steps include:

1. Physical Examination
   The doctor checks for pain, swelling, or warmth around the affected area.

2. Blood Tests
   Elevated white blood cell counts or inflammatory markers (like ESR and CRP) can suggest infection.

3. Imaging Tests

   • X-rays: Detect bone damage but may miss early infection.

   • MRI: Provides detailed images of bone and soft tissues.

   • CT Scan: Helps locate abscesses or bone destruction.

4. Bone Biopsy
   The most definitive test. A small sample of bone tissue is taken to identify the exact bacteria causing infection.

What are the Treatment Options for Osteomyelitis?

Treating osteomyelitis requires a combination of medication, surgery, and supportive care.

1. Antibiotic Therapy

• Intravenous (IV) antibiotics are usually the first step.

• Treatment lasts for 4–6 weeks or longer, depending on infection severity.

• The choice of antibiotic depends on the specific bacteria found in the bone biopsy.

2. Surgery

Surgical treatment is often necessary to remove infected or dead tissue.
Types of surgery include:

• Debridement: Removing infected bone and tissue.

• Drainage: Removing pus or abscesses.

• Bone grafting: Replacing lost bone tissue.

• Hardware removal: If implants are infected, they may need to be removed.

3. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

In some cases, high-pressure oxygen helps increase blood flow and promote healing in infected tissues.

4. Supportive Treatment

• Proper wound care and immobilization.

• Pain management medications.

• Nutrition support for better healing.

What are the Complications if Left Untreated?

If osteomyelitis is not treated promptly, it can lead to serious complications:

• Chronic infection that keeps returning

• Bone necrosis (death of bone tissue)

• Abscess formation

• Spread of infection to joints or bloodstream (sepsis)

• Amputation (in severe diabetic cases)

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from osteomyelitis depends on the severity and type of infection.

• Hospital stay for IV antibiotics may last several weeks.

• Physical therapy helps restore strength and mobility.

• Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic doctor ensure complete healing.

Patients must complete the full course of antibiotics, even if they start feeling better early, to avoid recurrence.

What are the Prevention Tips?

While not all bone infections can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by following these tips:

1. Maintain good hygiene and keep wounds clean.

2. Manage diabetes and blood sugar levels effectively.

3. Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they delay healing.

4. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins.

5. Seek prompt treatment for infections anywhere in the body.

6. Follow post-surgery instructions carefully to avoid infections.

For More Information
Regain Bone & Joint Care Clinic Chandanagar, Hyderabad
Contact: 90632 56567

Address: archana multispeciality hospital, 5-126, Manjeera Rd, Indira Nagar, Chanda Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500050

Visit us: https://www.regainortho.com/
Facebook: Regain Bone & Joint Care Clinic 
Instagram: regainbonejointcare
Youtube: Regain Ortho