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  • Talk
  • 23/09/2021
  • UK

Evolution Not Revolution in Managing Bone Infection

Description

The video begins with applause as Martin McNally expresses gratitude for his audience and clarifies that he is discussing Mr. Norman Martin, the first person to perform a knee replacement in Ireland. McNally introduces his topic of discussion, focusing on the evolution of practices in addressing osteomyelitis and related infections within his unit. He shares findings on historical cases, linking them to contemporary examples, and assesses the progress made in medical interventions over the years, especially regarding infection management.



He highlights various historical cases from old bone infections, contrasting them with modern instances while emphasizing how despite advancements, certain challenges, like chronic osteomyelitis, have persisted through the ages. With a nod to the importance of understanding the condition's complications, McNally reveals the underlying principles shaping surgical practices and classifications in infection management that inform current clinical decisions.



As he delves into classification systems for osteomyelitis, he unveils his BACH classification which categorizes patients based on bone involvement, infection complexity, and the patient's overall health. The classification not only streamlines the treatment pathways but also guides appropriate resource allocation and surgical decisions.



McNally shares data linking patient health factors, such as blood sugar levels and comorbidities, to surgical outcomes, underscoring the need to address these elements before treatment. As the session progresses, he touches on the shifts in clinical practices, such as transitioning from two-stage management of chronic osteomyelitis to more efficient single-stage procedures that lead to better patient outcomes.



With a focus on innovation, McNally also discusses local antimikrobial treatments and their potential benefits in infection control, marking a significant shift in current practices. He wraps up by encouraging medical professionals to continually seek incremental improvements in their approaches to treatment, thereby enhancing patient care. The discussion ends with a Q&A session where audience inquiries further explore the implications of McNally's findings and practices.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221720

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