ABSTRACT
The team approach, including microbiologists, infectious disease and internal medicine doctors, is certainly the basis for success in infection. However, many cases of musculoskeletal infection need the leadership of the orthopaedic surgeon to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of the patient with musculoskeletal symptoms and signs that suggest infection. This chapter presents the clinical aspects of infection. When treating patients with bone or joint infection, it is wise to maintain continuous collaboration with a specialist in microbiology. Ultrasonography may detect a subperiosteal collection of fluid in the early stages of osteomyelitis, but it cannot distinguish between a haematoma and pus. Magnetic resonance imaging can be helpful in cases of doubtful diagnosis, and particularly in suspected infection of the axial skeleton. The essence of treatment of open fractures is prophylaxis of infection. Mycotic or fungal infection causes an indolent granulomatous reaction, often leading to abscess formation, tissue destruction and ulceration.
