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Bone infections (osteomyelitis)
Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis) | Omar Saleem, MD
Dr. Omar Saleem is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of osteomyelitis, a serious infection of the bone that can result from trauma, surgery, or the spread of infection from other parts of the body. Dr. Saleem provides comprehensive care for patients with bone infections, focusing on early diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term management to prevent complications.
Comprehensive Diagnosis and Evaluation
Dr. Saleem uses a detailed evaluation process to diagnose osteomyelitis and determine the best course of treatment:
- Clinical Assessment: Reviewing the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and any risk factors such as recent surgeries, injuries, or infections.
- Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans are used to detect signs of bone infection, such as bone destruction or abscess formation.
- Blood Tests and Biopsy: Blood tests may reveal elevated markers of infection, while a bone biopsy can confirm the presence of bacteria or fungi causing the infection.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For cases where the infection is caught early or is less severe, Dr. Saleem may recommend non-surgical treatments to eradicate the infection and restore bone health:
- Antibiotic Therapy: High doses of antibiotics are often administered intravenously or orally for several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the infection.
- Immobilization: The affected area may be immobilized with a cast or brace to reduce movement and promote healing.
- Wound Care: If the infection is associated with an open wound or surgical site, Dr. Saleem ensures that proper wound care is provided to prevent the infection from spreading.
Surgical Treatment Options
In more advanced cases of osteomyelitis or when non-surgical treatments are not effective, Dr. Saleem offers advanced surgical options to remove the infection and promote healing:
- Debridement: Surgically removing infected or dead bone tissue to prevent the spread of infection and allow healthy bone to regenerate.
- Bone Grafting: In cases where significant bone tissue is removed, Dr. Saleem may use a bone graft to fill the defect and support the healing process.
- Hardware Removal: If the infection is associated with implanted hardware (such as screws or plates), Dr. Saleem may need to remove or replace the hardware to eliminate the source of infection.
- Drainage of Abscesses: If the infection has caused an abscess, surgical drainage may be required to remove the pus and alleviate pressure.
Holistic Recovery and Long-Term Management
Dr. Saleem’s approach to osteomyelitis focuses not only on eliminating the infection but also on restoring function and preventing recurrence. This includes a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which may involve:
- Physical Therapy: To strengthen the affected area and improve mobility after treatment.
- Nutritional Support: Ensuring that patients maintain a diet rich in nutrients that support bone healing and immune function.
- Monitoring for Recurrence: Regular follow-ups and imaging tests to monitor for any signs of infection returning.