One stage treatment of chronic osteomyelitis using antibiotic impregnated bone graft substitute: a preliminary report

Abstract

Aim: Chronic Osteomyelitis is a difficult to treat condition whose success is dependent on the eradication of foci of infection and effective dead space management, usually utilizing a multi-staged approach. Effective management is costly especially because repeated procedures requiring hospitalization are needed. We sought to determine if a single staged procedure would effectively address the logistic problems in our environment.

Methods: this was a prospective study involving 15 patients with established chronic osteomyelitis (13 type A and 2 type B). Each patient had radical debridement and dead-space management using adequate quantities of Herafill® G beads.

Results: Using this technique, we achieved control of infection in 66.7% of all cases seen. Four patients developed recurrence during the follow up period and one patient needed a below knee amputation for vascular complications arising from surgery.

Conclusion: one stage treatment using absorbable antibiotic impregnated bone graft substitutes is a reasonable treatment option in managing chronic osteomyelitis.

Keywords: Chronic Osteomyelitis, antibiotic beads