Aetiology and control of chronic pyogenic osteomyelitis in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Fifty-six patients suffering from chronic osteomyelitis, who attended the University of Ife Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, between November 1976 and December 1977 were studied. Poor hygiene, ignorance, sickle cell disease, and minor trauma in the form of cuts, abrasions, insect bites, and thorn-pricks were the main predisposing factors. Open fractures resulting from road accidents, and infection following surgical procedures, contributed to a lesser extent and may well become the main source of chronic bone infection in the near future. Measures are suggested for the control of the disease.