Successfully treated osteomyelitis with 20 years of evolution, covering the whole humerus (case report)

Abstract

Infections affecting the humerus are a serious therapeutic challenge, especially when they are spread along the entire length of the humerus and have a long evolution. Their origin can be both hematogenous and exogenous. Unsuccessfully treated osteomyelitis of the humerus can be the cause of severe disability, intoxication and even lead to amputation.
 The aim: To pay attention to the difficulties associated with the treatment of a rare localization of osteomyelitis affecting the entire humerus.
 Material and methods: One patient is presented, a 63-year-old man who underwent multiple operations for osteomyelitis of the humerus about 20 years ago.
 Results: The early postoperative period went smoothly. The surgical wound healed primarily, the bone infection was completely repaired, and the right upper extremity is in good functional condition, with no evidence of circulatory or neurological problems.
 Conclusion: The presented patient is a clear example that the key to the successful treatment of osteomyelitis is the correct choice of the main method, namely the method providing full revascularization of the bone or the replacement of the affected bone segment with autoosteoplastic material.