Osteomyelitis

Overview

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by bacteria (most often Staphylococcus aureus) or, less commonly, fungi. It can follow an injury, surgery or bloodstream infection, and if not treated promptly it may lead to bone destruction, chronic pain or even loss of limb function.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you’ll receive consultant-led assessment, rapid blood testing, on-site MRI imaging, tailored antibiotic and pain-management plans, plus outpatient physiotherapy to rebuild strength and mobility.

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Why Early Treatment Matters

• Prevents bone abscess formation and long-term deformity
• Reduces the risk of sepsis, pathological fracture and amputation
• Minimises chronic pain and stiffness by treating inflammation early
• Shortens recovery time with targeted antibiotics and guided rehabilitation

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Symptoms Of Osteomyelitis

• Localised bone pain that worsens with movement or pressure
• Redness, warmth or swelling over the affected area
• Fever, chills, fatigue or night sweats
• Slow-healing wounds, especially after surgery or trauma
• Draining sinus or pus from a previous surgical site
• In chronic cases: persistent low-grade pain, minimal fever and recurrent flare-ups

Call 999 if you experience signs of sepsis (confusion, rapid breathing, mottled skin) or sudden severe pain with high fever.

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Who Is Most At Risk?

• People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or immune suppression
• Recent orthopaedic surgery, open fractures or penetrating injuries
• Intravenous drug use or long-term catheter presence
• Chronic skin ulcers or pressure sores
• Children and older adults (the infection can spread via the bloodstream)

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When To Seek Medical Advice

Phone 01295 252 281 if you notice persistent bone pain, swelling around a surgical scar, recurrent fevers or a wound that will not heal. Early expert review helps avoid complications and prolonged disability.

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How We Diagnose And Monitor Osteomyelitis

1. Consultant Review – detailed history, wound inspection and musculoskeletal examination in our Orthopaedic/Medical Clinic.
2. Rapid Laboratory Tests – full blood count, CRP/ESR and blood cultures via our Blood-Testing Service, typically available within 24 hours.
3. On-Site MRI – high-resolution scans in the Imaging Centre to visualise marrow oedema, abscesses and soft-tissue spread.
4. CT Or Surgical Planning – if required, same-day CT is arranged at our sister site, The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital.
5. Microbiology Input – culture results guide antibiotic choice; bone biopsy can be arranged with our surgical partners if imaging is inconclusive.
6. Structured Follow-Up – CRP/ESR trends and symptom checks ensure infection is clearing and help adjust therapy duration.

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Treatment And Ongoing Support

• Targeted Antibiotics – IV or high-dose oral regimens tailored to culture results and kidney function.
• Pain & Inflammation Control – analgesics, nerve pain agents and local measures delivered by our Pain-Management Team.
• Surgical Debridement (If Needed) – referral to regional orthopaedic partners for removal of dead bone or infected hardware, with post-op care back in Banbury.
• Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation – strength, range-of-motion and gait retraining in our outpatient Physiotherapy Department.
• Dietetic Support – protein-rich, micronutrient-balanced eating plans to aid healing with the Dietetic Team.
• Diabetes & Vascular Optimisation – liaison with our Private GP Service and, if needed, cardiometabolic specialists to improve blood flow and control glucose.

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• Consultant-led clinics with appointments usually available within one week
• On-site MRI and rapid blood testing for swift, accurate diagnosis
• Integrated pain, dietetic and physiotherapy services—no need for multiple locations
• Close collaboration with orthopaedic and surgical centres for seamless care
• Free parking, flexible appointment times and a calm, private setting

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do I Need Antibiotics?
Depending on severity and response, treatment can range from two to six weeks (sometimes longer). We monitor blood markers and symptoms to decide when to stop.

Will I Need Surgery?
Not always. Surgery is considered if there’s necrotic bone, an abscess that can’t be drained conservatively or infected metalwork. We coordinate the pathway and provide follow-up rehab.

Can Osteomyelitis Come Back?
Yes, particularly if underlying issues (poor circulation, high blood sugar) persist. Regular monitoring, good foot care (for diabetics) and early treatment of minor wounds reduce recurrence.

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Regain Comfort And Mobility

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to arrange your osteomyelitis assessment and personalised treatment plan.