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Reamer-Irrigator-Aspirator Multiuse Application in the Treatment of Chronic Osteomyelitis
Ryan T Voskuil1, Brian Viscomi2, Ginger E Holt3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Tennessee 975 E. Third Street, Hospital Box 260,Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States.
Introduction:
The treatment of chronic intramedullary infection of the long bones relies on microbe-specific antibiotics in conjunction with surgical removal of infected necrotic material. We discuss the use of reamer-irrigator-aspirator(RIA) for debridement of the intramedullary canal instead of conventional reaming techniques. This is the first case report to explore the use of RIA for osteomyelitis.
Case Report:
We discuss the use of the RIA in treatment of a 26-year-old female presenting with chronic osteomyelitis of the left distal femoral shaft. She had normalization of infection laboratories at 6 weeks and complete resolution of symptoms at 3 months and was released at 6 months.
Conclusion:
Recent exploration of the RIA system's (Synthes®, Inc. West Chester, Philadelphia) multipurpose applications has indicated use in long bone debridement. While further exploration and high-quality studies are needed to make robust claims of efficacy, we believe that the use of RIA in the context of chronic osteomyelitis is a superior alternative to conventional reaming techniques.
Insights
The reamer-irrigator-aspirator (RIA) offers a superior alternative for debriding chronic osteomyelitis compared to traditional methods. This innovative technique shows promise in effectively treating long bone infections.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Infectious Disease Management
Background:
- Chronic osteomyelitis of long bones requires surgical debridement and antibiotics.
- Conventional reaming techniques are standard for intramedullary canal debridement.
Observation:
- A case report details the use of the reamer-irrigator-aspirator (RIA) in a 26-year-old female with chronic distal femoral osteomyelitis.
- The patient presented with a history of long bone infection requiring treatment.
Findings:
- The RIA system was employed for debridement of the infected intramedullary canal.
- The patient achieved normalized infection markers at 6 weeks and symptom resolution at 3 months.
Implications:
- The RIA system demonstrates potential as a superior alternative to conventional reaming for chronic osteomyelitis.
- Further research is warranted to establish the efficacy of RIA in treating long bone infections.
