Question
The patient inquires about long-term osteomyelitis pain that has not improved, the treatments they have received and their effectiveness, as well as how to treat osteomyelitis.
Answer
Osteomyelitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the periosteum and related blood vessels, characterized by dilation, congestion, swelling, or subperiosteal hemorrhage, followed by hematoma organization and periosteal hyperplasia. Treatment methods include regional physiotherapy and medication to alleviate swelling and pain, along with systemic antibiotic use to combat infection. In some cases, corticosteroids may be used for treatment, along with regional cold or hot compresses. For situations where there is purulent accumulation, incision and drainage surgery may be necessary. For those who have developed chronic fistulae that are not healing with treatment, surgical removal of dead bone may be required. After acute inflammation is reduced, surgical treatment should be considered.