Natural course of hematogenous pyogenic osteomyelitis (a retrospective study of 110 cases)

Hundred and ten consecutive cases in acute and various stages of chronicity were studied. Incidence regarding age, sex, bone affected and complications was established. The optimum way to manage osteomyelitis in different stages was sought. It was found that in acute stage early decompression of bone leads to resolution of disease. Hip involvement leads to necrosis of capital epiphysis and should be treated on an emergency basis. In the sub-acute stage it is necessary to protect the weakened bone. In chronic stage, we suggest sequestrectomy only after adequate involucrum has formed properly. Antibiotics in acute stage should be instituted as early as possible and should be continued for three weeks after the fever subsides. Antibiotics in sub-acute and chronic stage are given only in cases of reactivation of infection and around the time of surgery. Surgery, when required should be performed without too much soft tissue damage especially the covering periosteum. But repeated surgery should be avoided as they lead to cicatrization of muscles and further sequestration of bone.