Postoperative infections Diagnostic & therapeutic principles are same Management as per case merit
Miscellaneous Fungal
?
Spinal infection must be on any list of PUO Do not start Rx without +ve bacteriology Treat the host not just the infection Surgery with metalwork is not a problem [Secondary problems of structural failure despite control of infection can compromise outcome] Spinal Infection Points to be noted
Rare, rising incidence, mainly elderly or ill Delayed diagnosis common Specific diagnostic methods & treatment options MRI Ix of Choice DO NOT Start antibiotics until cultures obtained Repeat Biopsy if necessary Be prepared for urgent decompression Combine Decompression with Stabilisation Consider adjunctive Fusion ? Different Rx plan for S. Aureus Vs other organisms