Bone infections of the foot and ankle

Osteomyelitis or bone infections

This is a relatively common pathology that we see at the Family Foot and Leg Center here in Naples, Florida. Many patients will end up with this devastating diagnosis and it will lead to a number of amputations across the country, with each year steadily increasing the number of foot and leg amputations primarily from patients with diabetes and the associated complications from such especially with neuropathy and vascular disease.

We try to utilize the most innovative technology to try and prevent this devastating complication (ie amputations) , with the use of state of the art external fixators, MicroVas microcirculatory therapy, wound care referrals, and closely working with infectious disease doctors for management of the systemic portion of treatment especially in the case of ankle osteomyelitis. This usually includes intravenous antibiotics and weekly monitoring of blood tests. Sometimes it includes partial amputations of toes, feet, or even the leg.

We pride ourselves on diabetic limb salvage, which essentially includes treatment of bone infections of the ankle and foot, as well as prevention of these problems. We also utilize specific rotation flaps for wound coverage and insertion of antibiotic bone spacers within the area of concern to aide in bone removal and replacement, to prevent major amputations and loss of legs. Most ulcerations of our diabetic patients that have been present for 3 months or more may lead to underlying bone infections in weight bearing areas of the foot if not adequately treated, and a qualified wound care specialist (of our practice we have 3 physicians for this) is essential for optimal outcomes.

We also provide excellent prophylactic treatment and maintenence of our diabetic patients with routine foot examinations and vascular studies to rule out limb threatening vascular disease, with proper referrals as needed. We pride ourselves on our abilities to not only treat, erradicate infection, and save legs and feet. But we also provide excellent maintenence therapies to our patients to prevent these outcomes entirely. We are part of a team of physicians, nurses, and health care practitioners who are entirely dedicated to our diabetic patients to maintain daily activities, walking, and prevention of serious complications stemming from the pathology of diabetes.

Any comments are welcome, as I am willing to respond to questions, comments, or concerns at any time.