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Published on: February 25, 2022
[Infected pseudoarthrosis of the tibia, a pediatric case. Case report and literature review]
F G Mora-Ríos1, C E Antonio-Romero, L C Mejía-Rohenes
1Hospital Regional "General Ignacio Zaragoza", ISSSTE, Módulo Ortopedia Pediátrica, México, DF. drmoraortoped@hotmail.com
Insights
This case study details treating a 4-year-old male with infected pseudoarthrosis of the tibia. Successful treatment involved antibiotics, surgery, and bone grafting, restoring limb function.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Traumatology
Background:
- Chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis and infected pseudoarthrosis of the tibia present significant challenges to limb viability.
- These conditions are most common in children aged 2-6 years, with a 2:1 male predominance.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old male presented with an infected pseudoarthrosis of the tibia, exhibiting a draining fistula and inability to bear weight.
- Diagnostic procedures included X-rays, exudate culture, and biopsy.
Findings:
- Treatment involved a multi-modal approach: antimicrobial therapy, surgical debridement, and autologous bone grafting.
- The intervention successfully controlled the infection and promoted tibia healing.
Implications:
- This case highlights the efficacy of combined surgical and antimicrobial strategies for pediatric infected pseudoarthrosis.
- Restoration of limb function is achievable with timely and appropriate management.
Abstract:
Chronic posttraumatic osteomyelitis and infected pseudoarthrosis of the tibia are complex problems associated with considerable morbidity which may compromise the viability of the involved limb. The most frequent age of presentation is 2 to 6 years, with predominance in males at a 2:1 ratio. We present the case of a male 4 year-old patient with diagnosis of infected pseudoarthrosis. During the physical exam a fistula was detected in the anterior aspect of the right leg, with discharge of purulent material, and inability for weight bearing and gait. X-rays, culture of the exudate and biopsy were performed. Treatment consisted of antimicrobial therapy, surgical debridement's, and application of an autologous bone graft. The infection was controlled, the tibia healed, and function was restored.
