Simplified Method for Treating Osteomyelitis of the Sternoclavicular Joint

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Infectious Disease Management

Background:

• Osteomyelitis of the sternoclavicular joint presents a significant clinical challenge.
• Traditional treatment often involves resection and muscle flap reconstruction.

Observation:

• This case report details a novel single-stage approach for sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis.
• The procedure included resection of the sternoclavicular joint and adjacent sternum.

Findings:

• The surgical site was treated with calcium sulfate beads impregnated with antibiotics.
• Primary closure was achieved without the need for a muscle flap.

Implications:

• This single-stage debridement, resection, and antibiotic bead implantation technique may be a viable alternative.
• It offers a potentially less invasive option for managing complex sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis.