Spinal Infection (Osteomyelitis)
Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone. Often, osteomyelitis occurs in the vertebrae and other areas of the spine. Spinal infection requires swift and effective treatment to prevent nerve damage, deformity, or even death. You can trust the surgeons at Reconstructive Spine Surgery to perform the complex, challenging, yet vitally important surgery to treat this condition.
At Reconstructive Spine Surgery, our surgeons bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from three different specialties – orthopaedic, neurologic, and plastic surgery. They work together as a team to evaluate and treat even the most challenging spinal surgery patients with their unique multidisciplinary approach. You can find out more when you request a consultation online or contact us at (888) 506-4480.
Three Surgeons, One Team
Our surgeons bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from three different specialties – orthopaedic, neurologic, and plastic surgery. They work together as a team to find relief for even the most challenging spinal surgery patients.
Understanding Spine Infection
Spinal osteomyelitis can be caused by bacteria spread through the bloodstream to the spinal column. Many types of infections could be the initial cause (sinusitus, respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections), although the likelihood of these infections actually spreading to the spinal column is rare. Certain factors – age, cancer, malnutrition, IV drug use – may increase this likelihood. Spinal osteomyelitis has also been linked to surgical site infection during spinal procedures.
Symptoms usually begin as back pain (made worse with movement) and may be accompanied by fever, weight loss, abdominal pain, sciatica, and paralysis depending upon the location and severity of the spine infection. Blood tests and imaging studies such as an MRI and CT can confirm a diagnosis of spinal osteomyelitis.
Surgical Treatment
In many cases, surgical treatment for an infection of the spine is not necessary. When this is the case, IV antibiotics or antimicrobial drugs may be combined with bracing and analgesics for pain control. However, surgery may be the best option for some individuals, especially those for whom antibiotic medications have failed or who require the removal of infected bone. When surgery is required, it serves several primary purposes: removal of infected bone and subsequent stabilization of the spine. Stabilization can be accomplished through spinal instrumentation and fusion.
After Surgery
Our 3 surgeons make patient care a top priority. They will be deeply invested in your recovery and available to you and your loved ones if you have any questions or concerns.
To ensure a full recovery, IV antibiotics or antimicrobial drugs will be continued after surgery. This will take place in the hospital, where you will be monitored and given pain medications to relieve the discomfort that follows the procedure. You will be fitted with a brace and referred to a physical therapist to begin the process of regaining mobility. Although significant, this surgery will safeguard your long-term health and quality of life.
