title: Osteomyelitis.
abstract: Osteomyelitis can be difficult to treat. Current trends emphasize early diagnosis and aggressive treatment. Imaging has improved with nuclear scans and magnetic resonance imaging, and recent modifications in technique have enhanced the specificity. Treatment depends on debridement of necrotic bone and tissue, obtaining accurate cultures, and administration of culture- and sensitivity-directed antibiotics. Antibiotic delivery has expanded to include effective oral agents and local agents mixed with polymethylmethacrylate or a biodegradable substance. Success rates in treating this disease have improved with a systematic approach, making outcome more predictable.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555-0792.
authors.forename: R T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Laughlin
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sinha
authors.forename: J H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Calhoun
authors.forename: J T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Mader
mesh_terms: D002908:Chronic Disease; D048909:Diabetes Complications; D006801:Humans; D007595:Joint Prosthesis; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000150:complications