Current Concepts of Osteomyelitis

Abstract

Treatment of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis has changed since the advent of antibiotics. Prior to the use of antibiotics, Streptococcus hemolyticus was the most common offender in infancy; now Staphylococcus is the most common offender in all groups. Early and adequate specific antibiotic therapy is the key to successful treatment.

Chronic osteomyelitis may follow acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, open fractures, gunshot wounds, bone surgery, and use of traction pins or occur as a result of the extension of soft-tissue infection. Type of treatment depends on the local and general clinical picture, x-ray findings, culture, and results of sensitivity tests to antibiotics.