Pseudomonas osteomyelitis of the metatarsal sesamoid bones

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 1997 May;26(5):365-7.

Abstract

It is unusual for osteomyelitis of the sesamoid bones to occur after a puncture wound to the foot. When the puncture occurs through tennis shoes, the risk of Pseudomonas infection is increased. Pseudomonas was the causative organism in 7 of 22 cases reported in the literature. This report will explore the causes and natural history, as well as the treatment, of these infections. Initially, basic wound care principles should be adhered to when treating these wounds. Patient awareness and close follow-up is important to ensure complete healing. Treatment of this case involved intravenous antibiotics and medial sesamoidectomy. Foot deformities can occur with sesamoid osteomyelitis and sesamoid excision. Hallux valgus deformity was noted to occur with the osteomyelitis and worsen with sesamoid excision. Preservation of surrounding structures during excision is important to prevent deformity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Drug Therapy, Combination / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteomyelitis / drug therapy
  • Osteomyelitis / etiology*
  • Osteomyelitis / surgery
  • Pseudomonas Infections / drug therapy
  • Pseudomonas Infections / etiology*
  • Pseudomonas Infections / surgery
  • Sesamoid Bones* / surgery
  • Wounds, Penetrating / complications

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents