Spondylodiscitis, or vertebral osteomyelitis, is a serious infection affecting the intervertebral discs and the bones of the spine. It primarily manifests as intense back pain, which may extend to the neck, and could be accompanied by fever and neurological signs like leg weakness.
At Aster Whitefield Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify spondylodiscitis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the cornerstone for diagnosis, efficiently pinpointing inflammation and aiding in the formulation of a targeted treatment plan. Other tools may include CT scans and microbiological tests to detect the responsible pathogens.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Treatment generally begins with a non-surgical approach, focusing on eradicating the infection through comprehensive antibiotic therapy and physical measures to immobilize the spine. Physical therapy plays a vital role, in enhancing back stability and muscle function, supplemented by NSAIDs for pain relief if necessary.
Surgical Interventions
In cases where non-surgical methods are insufficient, or if the patient experiences significant complications like spinal instability or deformities, surgical intervention might be necessary. Our surgical treatments focus on removing the infected areas, stabilizing the spine, and correcting any deformities.
Personalized Care at Aster Whitefield
Majority of the Spondylodicitis are treated empirically, with Antitubercular medicines which is not correct. In Aster Whitefield Hospital, doctors follow evidence-based medicine and are treated based on biopsy and culture reports only to identify the type of organism. Surgeons work closely with infectious disease experts and start on appropriate antibiotics for that particular patient after understanding the microbiology of organism, considering the age, comorbidities, severity of the infection etc. Surgery is reserved only for patients with unstable spine and with neural deficits.
