Prompt diagnosis of suspected osteomyelitis by utilizing percutaneous bone culture

The authors describe a single technique of percutaneous bone culture, performed in the doctor's office or at the patient's bedside, in patients with suspected osteomyelitis. This technique provides for definitive documentation and verification of causative organisms when radiographic and scintigraphic studies are inconclusive, and it avoids the over-utilization of potentially dangerous radioisotopes and/or antibiotics, particularly in compromised individuals. Also described is a protocol to expedite the diagnosis and treatment of osteomyelitis in the hospital setting when diagnostic related groups (DRG's) are in effect.