Musculoskeletal Infections

Musculoskeletal infections involve the bone and soft tissues such as muscle and skin. They occur most commonly after open fractures where the bone comes out of the skin but can also occur after any surgery on the extremities, or as a complication with chronic wounds of the skin. Musculoskeletal infections have a significant and long-lasting impact on a patient‘s function and quality of life – they can even pose a threat to either limb or life if left untreated.

Treatment of bone and soft tissue infection frequently requires multiple modalities to completely eradicate the infection, particularly if the infection is long-standing (many months or years duration) and has resulted in the destruction of either bone and/or the overlying soft-tissues. Some of the modalities that CCBI incorporates into treating patients with bone infection include the latest diagnostic methods, surgical techniques, antibiotics and supplemental therapies.

CCBI’s approach to patients with musculoskeletal infections utilizes a multidisciplinary team strategy in line with our institution’s commitment to use the power of academic medicine, total-patient care, and cutting-edge technology to advance the science of discovery and transform the delivery of care. CCBI is dedicated to conducting groundbreaking research and quality improvement projects that enhance the diagnosis and management of patients suffering from all forms of bone and joint infections.

To learn more about musculoskeletal infections, click here.

The main objective of our clinical endeavors is to provide a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the management of complex bone and soft tissue infections. Pooling our resources from the departments of Infectious Disease, Orthopedics, and Surgery allows us to more completely address the needs of this patient population. Utilizing this team approach we provide expertise in the medical management of these infections, bony debridement and fixation, and soft tissue reconstruction. We treat patients with complex orthopedic injuries, fracture related infections, and soft tissue wounds related to pressure ulcers.  Our clinicians work together on the hospital wards, in the operating room, and in the outpatient setting to ensure patients are provided with a smooth transition of care as they progress through their treatment course.

To learn more about our clinical focus, click here.

The clinical and research scientists of the CCBI combine their expertise to investigate ways of improving patient outcomes associated with bone and soft tissue infections. The major areas of research interest include optimizing the diagnosis and management of these infections. Studies focused on epidemiology, laboratory testing, surgical interventions, and treatment strategies contribute to this overall goal. The multi-disciplinary nature of the CCBI, along with collaborations with industry and community partners, allow this research to be conducted from multiple perspectives and strengthens the impact of their findings. As a result, this research team is establishing themselves as regional and national leaders in orthopaedic infection research. 

To learn more about research conducted by the CCBI team, click here.

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