THE ORTHOPAEDIC CONSEQUENCES OF CHILDHOOD MENINGOCOCCAL SEPTICAEMIA

The aim of this study is to use a defined population of patients with meningococcal septicaemia to calculate the incidence of orthopaedic complications. Medical records and radiographs were analyzed retrospectively for all patients admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children from 01/01/2001 to 31/12/2012 with meningococcal septicaemia. Of the 130 patients with meningococcal septicaemia alive at discharge, 10 developed orthopaedic sequelae, representing an overall incidence in this patient population of 7.7%. 9 patients required an amputation, mostly in the lower limb, 16/22 (72.7%). 48 growth plate abnormalities were identified in 8 patients. 39 (81.3%) The most commonly affected was the distal tibia (38.5%). 10 ankles were identified as having a varus malalignment. 6 patients had documented leg length discrepancy Using a clearly defined denominator this study has identified an incidence of orthopaedic sequelae following meningococcal septicaemia of 7.7%. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) suggested that the incidence of growth disturbance is approximately 3%. This study highlights the underestimation of orthopaedic complications following meningococcal septicaemia. Close follow up of at risk patients should be considered to reduce the potential impact of these debilitating injuries.