Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is an infection and inflammation of the bone or bone marrow, which can occur in any age group. Different types of bacteria typically affect the different age groups. In children, osteomyelitis most commonly occurs at the ends of the long bones of the arms and legs, affecting the hips, knees, shoulders, and wrists. In adults, it is more common in the vertebrae, feet, or in the pelvis. 

There are several different ways to develop the bone infection of osteomyelitis. Bacteria can travel through the bloodstream and spread to the bone, causing an infection. This occurs mostly when the patient has an infection elsewhere in the body, such as pneumonia or a urinary tract infection, which spreads through the blood to the bone.

An open wound over a bone can also lead to osteomyelitis, most commonly with underlying peripheral vascular disease, peripheral neuropathy, or diabetes. With an compound fracture, the bone puncturing through the skin is exposed to bacteria, which increases the risk of osteomyelitis.

A recent surgery or injection around a bone can also expose the bone to bacteria and lead to osteomyelitis. Patients with conditions or taking medications that weaken their immune system are at a higher risk of developing osteomyelitis. Risk factors include cancer, chronic steroid use, sickle cell disease, HIV, diabetes, hemodialysis, intravenous drug users, and the elderly. A delay in diagnosis or treatment of osteomyelitis can lead to permanent deficits. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy helps to fight osteomyelitis in three ways: It aids in strengthening osteoclast (bone cells that reabsorb dead bone), which permits the osteoclasts to remove debris more efficiently. HBOT improves the immune system by supplying the white blood cells with sufficient oxygen.  When used in conjunction with antibiotics, it supports the action of the antibiotics. With hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the body will begin to produce new blood vessels called capillaries. The body is able to create new bone while getting rid of the diseased bone.

 Orlando Hyperbarics provides Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in a convenient and comfortable non-hospital facility. The center, located at 6200 Lee Vista Boulevard, Suite 250, Orlando, Florida 32822, is served by SR 436 and SR 528, easily accessed from Orlando International Airport, and located near Orlando's Medical City in Lake Nona.

Orlando Hyperbarics | orlandohyperbarics.com | 407-240-3996 | |info@orlandohyperbarics.com