Management of sequelae of osteoarticular infections of infants and neonates due to delay in initiation of definitive treatment

Abstract

Background: Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis are well-known osteoarticular infections in infants and neonates. The timely intervention of such infections is of utmost importance as delay in initiation of treatment may lead to irreversible joint damage and limb deformity also. The purpose of this study was not only to find out the sequelae of osteoarticular infections of infants and neonates due to delay in initiation of a definitive treatment but also to propose their management. Materials & Methods: This study was conducted after approval by the institutional review board. All neonates and infants with sequelae of osteoarticular infection due to delay in initiation of treatment from June 2019 to May 2021 were included in this study. Data for each patient were collected using the Hosp Gestor program. Various sequelae of osteoarticular infection were noted and then rehabilitative surgical management was done. Results: Out of 40 neonates and infants who got a delay in initiation of their treatment of osteoarticular infection, 31 (77%) came out with sequelae of osteoarticular infection. There was male predominance in this study. Sequelae were more due to osteoarticular infection of septic arthritis (53%) as compared with osteomyelitis (43%). Hip joint was found to be affected more. All patients were treated for their sequelae with rehabilitative operations. Among rehabilitative operations, hip reconstructive surgery was the most common procedure. The greater the delay in initiation of treatment in the acute stage, the more severe the sequelae. Conclusion: Early detection and institutional visit resulted in good outcomes. This study proves the truth behind the fact that delay in diagnosis and initiation of definitive treatment causes more complications and sequelae. This study also serves as a clinical guide to identify risk factors, awareness about early detection, and effective institutional treatment of osteoarticular infections in infants and neonates.