Orthopedic Infections

Musculoskeletal infections can be challenging to diagnose and thus treat. Unrecognized infections can be both life and limb threatening if not recognized and treated. The prompt diagnosis of a musculoskeletal infection is the most vital aspect in the appropriate management of these conditions. Though the diagnosis may at times prove difficult due to a variety of mitigating circumstances, the prudent use of laboratory data, imaging studies, and sound clinical acumen should minimize delay or missed diagnosis. Acute treatment of an infection is substantially more straightforward than management of chronic musculoskeletal infections and their unfortunate sequelae.