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Mycobacterium chelonae-abscessus Complex Infection After Flatfoot Reconstruction
Jessica Lickiss1, Ansgar Olsen1, Jay D Ryan2
1Resident, Orthopedics Department, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Fairfax, VA.
Summary
A rare case of Mycobacterium chelonae-abscessus infection and osteomyelitis occurred after foot surgery. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and surgery led to a successful recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Podiatric Medicine
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) and atypical mycobacterial infections of the foot are uncommon.
- Reports of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) foot infections, particularly involving soft tissue and bone, are infrequent.
- No prior case reports detail NTM infection following elective foot surgery.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old female developed Mycobacterium chelonae-abscessus infection and osteomyelitis post-flatfoot reconstruction surgery.
- The infection necessitated hardware removal and multiple surgical debridements.
- The patient presented with a rare postoperative complication of elective foot surgery.
Findings:
- Successful management involved a combination of surgical intervention and prolonged antibiotic therapy.
- The treatment regimen included 6 weeks of intravenous and 5 months of oral antibiotics.
- The patient achieved a satisfactory outcome with complete healing at the final follow-up.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of NTM infections after elective foot procedures.
- Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment strategy are crucial for managing these rare infections.
- Further research and awareness are needed regarding NTM infections in orthopedic foot surgery.
