[Therapy of osteomyelitis]

Exogenic post-traumatic bone infection has come strongly into focus of attention, as compared to haematogenic cases. Complex prophylaxis against such infection, therefore, is of great importance. The initial phase of bacterial osteomyelitis must be identified and must be followed by immediate action, as early treatment is absolutely essential. That is why the routes of infection, which depend on the extent of injury and on the mode of primary treatment, as well as all areas affected must be fully detected. Substantial therapeutic steps should include radical sanitation, stabilisation (especially fixateur externe), different variants of drainage, and autogenic spongiosa transplantation. New results have become available also in the context of supplementary specialised antibiotic therapy and coverage of soft tissue.