The bones are probably not the first part of the body that springs to mind when you think about possible infections. The skeletal system is usually not susceptible to infectious disease; however, having a compromised immune system can put you at risk for osteomyelitis. Previously incurable, this bone infection can now be treated in a variety of ways.
Understanding Osteomyelitis
Staphylococcus bacteria is usually the culprit behind osteomyelitis, although Pseudomonas bacteria is also a common cause among IV drug users. Bacteria traveling in the bloodstream or from nearby infection sites can enter the bones. Pathogens can also directly enter the bones if they are exposed during surgery or injury. You may not have any symptoms, or they may be inaccurately attributed to other conditions. These include pain, edema, heat or redness at the infection site, a fever, chills or irritability.
Drug Therapy
Drug therapy is typically the first line of treatment for this condition. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria and get rid of the infection. The drugs will likely be administered intravenously for up to six weeks. Physicians may also recommend taking more than one antibiotic or combining administration methods. In the case of spinal osteomyelitis, which is more likely to affect adults, four weeks of IV treatment followed by a two-week round of oral antibiotics is a common plan of attack. A year of antibiotics may be required if tuberculosis is behind the bone infection, although this cause is usually concentrated in impoverished areas.
Surgical Treatments
In severe cases of osteomyelitis, or in incidents where antibiotics are not effective, surgical treatment is required. Such procedures may involve draining any fluid or pus from the infection site in addition to removing the affected bone and tissues. Grafts are used to fill in the areas where bone or tissue are removed; this is done to promote healing and support new bone development. In some cases, however, these efforts are still not enough to stop the infection. When this occurs in the limbs, amputation is the final option.
Amputation & Rehabilitation
In cases where amputation is necessary, considerable physical challenges and mental anguish can develop. Physical rehabilitation is vital to improve mobility and restore the highest level of independence possible. The primary goals for amputation rehab include learning how to use assistance devices; participating in physical therapy to restore muscle strength; and relearning how to perform routine activities. In addition to making changes in the home environment, it's important that emotional support is available from family and caretakers.
