Orthopedic Conditions

Saw was treated with Osteomyletis, infection of the bone.

A great number of people from Burma cannot afford medical treatment. Additionally distance and access to proper medical care for what most consider simple procedures such as x-rays, bone setting and cast can become obstacles to treatment. Therefore, many patients BCMF sees are those who have suffered from severe compound fractures and old fractures or broken bones which did not heal properly. We have also treated patients with more serious conditions such as Osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone.

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection most often caused by bacteria, but can also be caused by fungi or other germs. Bacteria may spread to a bone from infected skin, muscles, or tendons next to the bone. The infection can also start in another part of the body and spread to the bone through the blood. An infection can also be caused following a bone surgery.

This is most likely if the surgery is done after an injury or if metal rods or plates are placed in the bone. Treatment includes antibiotics to rid the body of the infection. Surgery may also be necessary to remove dead tissue, remove the hardware used to heal the bones and bone grafting may be performed.