Osteomyelitis of an epiphyseal region.

This case report involves the medical and surgical treatment of osteomyelitis of an epiphyseal region. No bone resection was performed. Rather, the patient was given a closed drainage system after incision and drainage of the affected part. Intravenous antibiotics singularly and in synergistic combination were provided throughout the 32-day hospital stay. The outcome showed that although there was early closure of the epiphyseal plate, a minimum of damage to the joint was evident after treatment. Although surgery appears to be the historical treatment of choice in osteomyelitis, conservative management of selected cases without resection of bone is a viable alternative.

Xanthoma of a calcaneus.

Primary xanthoma in foot bones is an extremely rare event. In an individual without a family history of hyperlipemia, it is even a rarer finding. One case of a xanthoma of a calcaneus is presented in an otherwise asymptomatic 19-year-old normal lipidemic female. The previous literature is reviewed. The clinical findings and treatment course are presented.

Nosocomial postoperative tetanus infection.

In light of the fact that tetanus spores are present throughout the environment, this article presents a case of nosocomial postoperative tetanus. A review of the immunization schedule is included to familiarize the surgeon with the active and passive methods of immunization. The authors recognize that tetanus infections are uncommon in our society, but all doctors should become aware of the appropriate treatment program as presented in this article.