Spinal Infections for Postgraduate Orthopaedic Exams

Description

The video features a lecture by Nicky, a mentor and healthcare professional based in Lancaster, about spinal infections relevant for a forex exam. The presentation covers critical conditions regarding spine infections, their increasing incidence, and treatment challenges. Key points include:



1. **Definition of Spinal Infections:** These include infections of the vertebral body, end plates, disks, and spinal tissues, leading to serious complications.



2. **Incidence and Demographics:** Spinal infections account for 2-7% of musculoskeletal infections, more common in males, particularly in populations younger than 20 or older than 50. The mortality rate ranges from 2-20%.



3. **Diagnostic Challenges:** The condition often presents non-specifically, leading to delays in diagnosis of several months, resulting in a higher risk of severe outcomes.



4. **Risk Factors:** These include age, chronic diseases (like diabetes), intravenous drug use, and recent surgeries. The increasing incidence may be linked to better diagnostics and rising rates of spinal procedures.



5. **Microbial Agents:** Common causative organisms include Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli, as well as tuberculosis in endemic regions.



6. **Presentation and Examination:** Patients may exhibit axial pain, neurological symptoms, fevers, or unremitting pain. Diagnosis is supported through CRP, ESR, and appropriate imaging such as MRI.



7. **Management Options:** Treatment involves antibiotics, monitoring response, and in some cases, surgical intervention for stabilization, decompression, or biopsy.



8. **Surgical Indications:** Surgery is considered for neurological deficits, spinal instability, septic conditions, or ineffective conservative treatment.



Overall, Nicky emphasizes the importance of a high index of suspicion, timely diagnosis, and effective management strategies to improve outcomes in patients with spinal infections.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221166

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