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Imaging of chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis.
Achim H Kaim1, Thomas Gross, Gustav K von Schulthess
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland. akaim@uhbs.ch
European Radiology
|April 27, 2002
Summary
Diagnosing chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis requires a combination of clinical, lab, and imaging tests. This review details various imaging techniques, aiding in selecting the best diagnostic approach for this persistent bone infection.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Posttraumatic osteomyelitis is a persistent bone infection often following fractures.
- It is characterized by chronicity and recurrent infection activation.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical, laboratory, and imaging assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the definition, epidemiology, and pathophysiology of chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis.
- To discuss the diagnostic value of various imaging modalities for this condition.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on posttraumatic osteomyelitis.
- Analysis of conventional radiography, cross-sectional imaging, and radionuclide studies.
Main Results:
- Conventional radiography provides initial information on bone deformity and implants.
- Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for assessing infection activity, extent, and complications like sequestra and abscesses.
- Selecting the optimal imaging modality can be challenging due to the variety of available methods.
Conclusions:
- Effective diagnosis and management of chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis depend on judicious use of multiple imaging modalities.
- Understanding the strengths of each imaging technique is vital for accurate assessment and treatment planning.