Description
In the antibiotic era, osteomyelitis in older adults commonly occurs in diabetic foot infections, vertebral osteomyelitis, and infected prosthetic devices. Patients with compromised blood supply usually need a combined surgical and medical approach. Bone biopsy cultures should be obtained if possible when the patient is not on antibiotics. There is not good evidence about the most effective antibiotic, intravenous versus oral use, or the duration of treatment needed. A team approach, utilizing orthopaedic surgeons, infectious disease consultants, physicians, and vascular surgeons can be helpful in the management of these patients.
