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Published in: International Orthopaedics 2/2012

Open Access 01-02-2012 | Review Article

Pyogenic spondylitis

Authors: W. Y. Cheung, Keith D. K. Luk

Published in: International Orthopaedics | Issue 2/2012

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Abstract

Pyogenic spondylitis is a neurological and life threatening condition. It encompasses a broad range of clinical entities, including pyogenic spondylodiscitis, septic discitis, vertebral osteomyelitis, and epidural abscess. The incidence though low appears to be on the rise. The diagnosis is based on clinical, radiological, blood and tissue cultures and histopathological findings. Most of the cases can be treated non-operatively. Surgical treatment is required in 10–20% of patients. Anterior decompression, debridement and fusion are generally recommended and instrumentation is acceptable after good surgical debridement with postoperative antibiotic cover.
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Metadata
Title
Pyogenic spondylitis
Authors
W. Y. Cheung
Keith D. K. Luk
Publication date
01-02-2012
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
International Orthopaedics / Issue 2/2012
Print ISSN: 0341-2695
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5195
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-011-1384-6

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