Haydon and Dirschl
Dr. Rex Haydon and Dr. Douglas Dirschl

Understanding the Risks & Causes of Bone Infections

The University of Chicago Medicine's Bone Infection Program is setting a new standard of care for patients with osteomyelitis (infection in the bone). Thanks to exceptional experience and skill, orthopaedic surgeons and infectious disease specialists work together to provide unparalleled diagnosis and treatment of osteomyelitis. Our Bone Infection Program brings together experts in these two specialties to provide comprehensive care in a single setting.

Bone infections can become a severe condition if not treated properly. If you have any of the following signs, you should reach out to your doctor right away:

  • Chronic infections of bone 
  • Infections around or involving orthopaedic implants
  • Infected fractures
  • Infections of original (native) and prosthetic joints

Treatment for Bone Infection

In order to give you the best care options for your bone infections, our doctors offer both non-operative and operative solutions, including:

  • Medication, including infusion therapy
  • Draining the infected area
  • Removing diseased bone and tissue (debridement)
  • Restoration of blood flow to the bone
  • Removal of foreign objects such as plates or screws from a previous surgery
  • Limb salvage, limb reconstruction
  • Bone grafting
  • Limb lengthening, bone transplant
  • Amputation

Our team also can coordinate home and outpatient services for follow-up care.

Find an Orthopaedic Location Near You