Introduction
Severe osteomyelitis of the femur, affecting more than one third of its length and spreading over almost its entire circumference, is a real challenge for modern medicine. This is a life-threatening condition, carrying a significant risk of disability. The treatment is multi-stage, requiring a combination of surgical techniques and conservative schemes. Usually, if it is successful, it can last for years. Frequent failures have given reason in the past to view such cases as causa perduta.
Aim
The aim of this article is to draw attention to the difficulties associated with the treatment of severe exogenous osteomyelitis of the femur with 5 years of evolution.
Patients and Methods
The presented patient is a 55-year-old man affected by osteomyelitis of the femur type I B1 (osteomyelitis in a stable segment affecting one-third or more of the length of the bone, distant from the joint), according to the proposed own classification.
Results
The severe bone infection of the femur was repaired. The limited range of motion in the knee joint was definitive. The patient is moving without aids, with a greatly improved quality of life. No recurrence has been recorded. His suicidal thoughts have disappeared.
Conclusion
Severe infection of the femur, spread throughout a large part of its length and covering almost its entire circumference, is an extremely difficult condition to treat, which, with proper treatment, can have a successful outcome.
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