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Treatment
The doctor may immobilize the affected area with a splint. The doctor may also recommend avoiding any weight bearing on the area.
Antibiotics
This infection is treated with antibiotics. They are given by IV and sometimes by mouth.
- Acute osteomyelitis is treated for at least 4-6 weeks
- Chronic osteomyelitis may require antibiotics for a longer period of time
Surgery
For chronic infection, surgery may be required to:
- Clean infected bone via scraping and irrigating the area
- Remove any fragments of dead bone or tissue that may prolong the infection
In severe cases, amputation may be necessary.
Skin Graft
In some situations, the doctor may recommend a skin graft . The skin in the affected area is replaced with healthy skin taken from another part of the body.
If you are diagnosed with osteomyelitis, follow your doctor's instructions .