Effectiveness of imipenem in the treatment of chronic post-traumatic osteitis

In 61 patients the effectiveness of imipenem in the treatment of chronic post-traumatic osteitis was examined. The diagnosis of post-traumatic osteitis was based on clinical and radiological signs of infection, as well as a positive bone culture from a surgical specimen. The average duration of treatment was 10 days with a dosage 3 X 500 mg imipenem daily. The most commonly identified pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus. In 75% of the cases an infection with Gram-positive pathogens was found. The majority of Gram-negative infections was caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The rate of elimination was greater than 90% for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A definite cure was achieved in 80% of the reported cases, only four patients (7%) showed a recurrence of the infection. Allergic reactions or other adverse effects were not observed except for diarrhoea in four patients. The high rate of therapeutic effectiveness as well as the excellent toleration justify the use of imipenem in the treatment of chronic post-traumatic osteitis.