Suggest Treatment For Chronic Osteomyelitis
The swelling continued slowly and by May was infected--a drain was inserted and I had IV antibiotics. The swelling lessoned but never totally resolved, and this month i have infection again. Another drain and more meds. Question: Is this likely to be chronic? Can osteomylitis be cured at this point? I am at a good teaching medical center, but am concerned that this was not treated for many months, and now is recurring. Thanks for any general advice you can give.
This doesn't sound like osteomyelitis!
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks so much for this query.
This doesn't sound like chronic osteomyelitis. Yes, osteomyelitis can be conveniently treated through surgery and medical interventions. In your case, you probably have a chronic soft tissue infection. This has continued and not well treated. I will suggest that you get a culture to identify the exact germ and what antibiotic works best for it. This will ensure that treatment goes smoothly. Furthermore, I will not advocate for surgical closure. I will want to allow the wounds to heal inside out through granulation. Closure probably traps germs inside and is responsible for the repetitive infections a while after closure.
I hope this helps and guides. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.