Osteomyelitis of the sternum

Sternal osteomyelitis has a low incidence, especially hematogenous, and is very difficult to treat in orthopedics. It is common after sternal surgery, in the elderly and in patients with diabetes or systemic disease; clinically it shows multiple sinuses and, in severe cases, sepsis. Thorough debridement, unobstructed drainage and local blood supply are key to successful treatment.

Common Symptoms

Infectious fever; sternal cleft; Zhan Siqiao; Cong Yike

Causes

(1) Etiology. It mainly follows transverse sternotomy or median sternotomy wound infection, especially in the elderly or those with diabetes. (2) Pathogenesis. Blood-borne spread to bone, most often infection elsewhere such as pneumonia or urinary infection spreading via blood. Open wounds with exposed bone: peripheral vascular or nerve disease, diabetes, open fracture. Recent surgery or injection near bone. Other diseases or drugs: cancer, long-term steroids.

Treatment

Surgery, supportive treatment

Prevention

Prevent boils, furuncles, carbuncles and upper respiratory infection; keep living space ventilated, maintain hygiene and exercise. Prevent traumatic infection and detect and treat it early. When treating other diseases, do not abuse or long-term use hormonal drugs, which accelerate bone and medullary sclerosis and obstruction, impair osteocyte metabolism and even cause necrosis. During colds and fever, temperature should not exceed 38.5 degrees; promptly use antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic injections IV or IM, or heat-clearing Chinese medicine, to nip in the bud.

Recommended Department

It is recommended to visit the cardiothoracic surgery department; before the visit you may first book an appointment and connect with experts through this platform.

Warm reminder: The above information is provided for health education reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek care at a regular hospital in time.