Surgical management of primary chronic osteomyelitis: a long-term retrospective analysis.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to present an extensive review of primary chronic osteomyelitis (PCO) and present long-term treatment results in 4 patients.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

This is a retrospective case study analysis of 4 patients with documented PCO who were treated by a standardized surgical technique by 1 surgeon and were followed clinically and radiographically for a mean of 22 years.

RESULTS

Based on follow-up visits to date and correspondence to the surgeon who treated these patients, there have been no radiographic recurrences of PCO in 4 patients followed 5, 23, 26, and 34 years, respectively. Complete symptomatic relief has been achieved in 3 of 4 patients; the fourth patient exhibits persistent recurrent myofascial pain.

CONCLUSION

The surgical technique discussed herein provides a viable alternative in the range of potential treatment options for this uncommon disease of unknown etiology.