TREATMENTS

Bone Infection: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dr. Amit Bansal, a leading orthopedic specialist at Bansal Bone & Joint Clinic, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating bone infections, also known as osteomyelitis. Bone infections are severe medical conditions caused by bacteria or fungi that invade bone tissue, leading to inflammation, pain, and even bone damage if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.

Bone infections typically occur when bacteria or fungi enter the body through open wounds, injuries, or surgical procedures, spreading through the bloodstream to the bone. Common bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, are often the culprits. Risk factors for osteomyelitis include recent bone surgeries, open fractures, compromised immune systems, or chronic illnesses like diabetes. Pediatric cases are more likely to be blood-borne, while adults often face infections following trauma or surgical procedures.

Symptoms of Bone Infection

Bone infections may develop suddenly (acute) or over time (chronic), each presenting distinct symptoms. Common symptoms include:

  • Localized pain and tenderness in the affected area
  • Swelling and redness, sometimes accompanied by warmth
  • Fever and chills, particularly in acute cases
  • Fatigue and general malaise
  • Limited movement or functional impairment in the affected limb

Chronic osteomyelitis may exhibit these symptoms mildly or intermittently, making it challenging to detect without medical imaging.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

At Bansal Bone & Joint Clinic, Dr. Amit Bansal emphasizes a thorough diagnostic approach. Initial evaluation includes blood tests, imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, and sometimes a bone biopsy to determine the infection’s extent and origin.

Treatment for osteomyelitis combines antibiotics, sometimes given intravenously to ensure effective delivery to the bone tissue. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases to remove infected tissue, drain abscesses, or reconstruct damaged bone areas. Chronic cases may require more extensive surgical intervention or prolonged antibiotic courses.