Osteomyelitis

Clinical features

• Pain
• Erythema
• Swelling
• Sinus tract formation
• Fever and systemic upset

Investigations

• Blood culture
• Bone biopsy

Infection Control

Basic universal precautions

Treatment

Source control may be required to achieve a successful outcome, including bone debridement (which also provides samples for culture) – discuss with Orthopaedics

Chronic infection may not require immediate treatment if the patient is otherwise well. Aim to obtain culture samples prior to treatment

FLUCLOXACILLIN IV 2g 6 hourly

If true penicillin allergy or known MRSA:

VANCOMYCIN IV Dose as per calculator

Target trough 15-20 mg / L

Duration: Discuss with Microbiology