Transdiaphyseal osteomyelitis: Review of literature and our experience at a tertiary care center

Abstract

Chronic haematogenous osteomyelitis persists to be a key reason of musculoskeletal morbidity globally. It has remained a perennial dilemma for the orthopedic surgeon which levies a considerable healthcare burden. With regards to the treatment of chronic transdiaphyseal osteomyelitis numerous issues still remain unresolved. This was a retrospective study at a tertiary care centre from May 2015 to July 2019, analysing 13 patients (9 males and 4 females, mean age 21 years) who were diagnosed with chronic transdiaphyseal osteomyelitis. The clinical records of all patient were retrospectively evaluated and the data recorded. Osseous stabilizations in the form of intramedullary nails or external fixators were essential in 4 cases and plastic surgery reconstructions were required in 9 cases. Our objective in this article was to study the magnitude of the problem and to emphasize areas wherein optimum research might enhance the management of this condition. We have also reviewed the literature to summarise the existing research. We would like to report our experiences in the treatment of transdiaphyseal osteomyelitis patients admitted to our hospital.