Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Primary Sternal Osteomyelitis
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Primary Sternal Osteomyelitis
This case shows the difficulties of early diagnosis in primary sternal osteomyelitis and the risks of some wrong therapeutics.
The satisfying outcome of this patient reflects the quick action to promote surgical debridement and the use of antibiotics, which are both recommended treatments. The closure of the wound in 10 days after debridement suggests that the HBOT might have indirectly, but not conclusively, aided in the premature closure of the wound, avoiding a longer healing by second intention closure or muscle flap rotation.
Although there is no hard evidence that HBOT improves the final outcome of primary sternal osteomyelitis, this case shows a highly positive closure for the patient. In addition to well-established standard treatments such as surgical debridement and bacterial control, HBOT could be recommended as an adjunct tool of therapy for patients with primary sternal osteomyelitis.
Conclusions
This case shows the difficulties of early diagnosis in primary sternal osteomyelitis and the risks of some wrong therapeutics.
The satisfying outcome of this patient reflects the quick action to promote surgical debridement and the use of antibiotics, which are both recommended treatments. The closure of the wound in 10 days after debridement suggests that the HBOT might have indirectly, but not conclusively, aided in the premature closure of the wound, avoiding a longer healing by second intention closure or muscle flap rotation.
Although there is no hard evidence that HBOT improves the final outcome of primary sternal osteomyelitis, this case shows a highly positive closure for the patient. In addition to well-established standard treatments such as surgical debridement and bacterial control, HBOT could be recommended as an adjunct tool of therapy for patients with primary sternal osteomyelitis.